200 Witnesses Summoned for Monday's Inquest; Frank and Lee Held in Tower; Grand Jury Tackles Only Routine Business
Solicitor General Hugh M. Dorsey moved Friday to hire private detectives to pursue leads in the Mary Phagan murder case that existing investigators have yet to fully explore. Dorsey met during the day with city detectives and Pinkerton agent Miss Hattie Barnett, signaling his growing personal involvement in the investigation.
Despite the activity, no major breakthroughs emerged Friday. Detectives continued running down numerous tips, the vast majority of which proved worthless upon investigation. The grand jury convened in the morning but addressed only routine matters, leaving the Phagan case entirely untouched. The newly formed jury set to meet Monday may take it up at that point.
Coroner Vows a Thorough Inquiry
Coroner Donehoo pushed back firmly against public pressure for a quick resolution. "A case like this, so deeply wrapped in mystery, cannot be solved in a day," he told a reporter, urging anyone dissatisfied with the pace of the investigation to step forward and assist rather than criticize. He recalled a local homicide investigation that ran six weeks before detectives uncovered anything concrete, noting that swift solutions belong in magazines and not real criminal cases.
Donehoo confirmed that up to 200 witnesses may be subpoenaed for Monday's resumed inquest, with both Frank and Lee expected to testify. He also disclosed that a fresh lead had surfaced, one promising enough that he may call an additional witness on Monday. He stopped short of details but acknowledged the possibility of exhuming Mary Phagan's body if the evidence demands it.
Where Things Stand
The coroner's inquest remains open and will resume Monday afternoon. Once the jury delivers its verdict, the case passes formally to Dorsey as Fulton County's chief prosecuting officer. The grand jury, the body with power to issue indictments, will then conduct proceedings far more rigorous than anything before the coroner.
Key facts as of Friday: jail officials confirmed no visitors will be permitted to see Frank or Lee, though their attorneys will have full access. Reports that famed detective William J. Burns had been summoned to Atlanta were dismissed as Burns was last known to be in Europe.
Militia Story Debunked
The rumor of National Guard mobilization traced back to a simple precautionary request. Adjutant General Nash had asked a few Fifth Regiment officers to remain available in case of unrest. A handful reported to the armory Thursday evening but were home before midnight. Deputies who swept the city found Atlanta completely quiet.
Frank's Allies Speak Out
Friends of Leo Frank stepped forward Friday with a vigorous defense of his character.
