The Tragic End of a Civil War Veteran

The body of Coner Mullen, an old soldier who was discharged at his own request from the Soldiers' Home at Orting last Tuesday, was found in the bay at the foot of Pike street yesterday morning at 1:30 o'clock. There were no signs of violence, which, taken in connection with the fact that he had threatened to take his own life, is strongly indicative of suicide, although accidental drowning is not impossible. The discovery was reported to Coroner Askam by Officer Thom, who patrols the water front. Mullen wore a suit of dark clothes, with a G. A. R. button in the lappel of his coat. He had no money or other valuables, but in his pocket were three papers that not only gave his name, but also considerable about his history. One was a soldier's discharge paper, showing he was a private of Company B, Third regiment, Michigan infantry, enrolled August 25, 1864. Mullen had arrived in Seattle the same day he was released from the Soldiers' Home and had been arrested for intoxication. He had intended to go to San Francisco to be with relatives, but after losing his steamer, he was last seen drinking at Probst's saloon on Columbia street. Coroner Askam is investigating the death.