Bio

James Stack's early life is not extensively documented. He was known to be an old soldier from the British 65th Regiment, which was stationed in Otahuhu, Auckland, New Zealand, in the mid-19th century. Stack married Mary Finnegan, who was the daughter of a widow named Mary Finnegan. Stack's marriage to Mary connected him to her family.

When Stack's wife died unexpectedly, he moved in with Mary Finnegan and her three sons: James, Benjamin, and John. The Finnegan family lived in a small cottage divided into two homes. Mary Finnegan was also a widow and had been a resident of the area for some time. The Finnegan family's situation was similar to many families in Otahuhu during that period, where they relied on one another for support.

Stack helped with the upkeep of the Finnegan home. He was seen as a friend to Mary and her sons. However, shortly before the tragic events that would later lead to his arrest, neighbors noticed that the Finnegan family had suddenly vanished. Concerns were raised when one neighbor, Mrs. Weaver, had a conversation with Mary just a day before they disappeared.

In the following days, Stack was observed digging in the garden of the cottage. Eventually, he could not be found. Investigations began, but initial efforts were not thorough. It wasn't until late December 1865 that law enforcement managed to track down Stack after word spread about his whereabouts. He had altered his appearance and was using a false name when he was apprehended.

Murder Story

James Stack, known as "The Otahuhu murderer," was involved in the deaths of four members of the Finnegan family on September 26, 1865. The victims were Mary Finnegan and her three sons: James, Benjamin, and John. Their bodies were discovered buried on their property in Otahuhu, Auckland, New Zealand, shortly after they were reported missing.

Mrs. Weaver, who lived next door, noticed that the Finnegan family was gone. She had spoken with Mary Finnegan the day before, and Mary had expressed concern about Stack. After the family disappeared, Mrs. Weaver asked Stack for the hammer she had lent him. He said he could not find it and paid her two shillings instead.

In the following days, Stack was seen digging in the garden. Constable Negus was urged to investigate, but his inquiries were limited. He eventually found Stack, who claimed that the Finnegans had traveled to the Hokitika gold fields. Stack produced a letter that was later found to be forged. As police became more suspicious, Stack fled the area.

A thorough search of the cottage and garden revealed the bodies of the Finnegan family members. James and Benjamin had severe head injuries, and Mary was buried under carrots. John’s body was found years later.

James Stack was arrested on December 27, 1865, when he was recognized by a sergeant. He was transferred to Auckland, where he faced trial. Stack was convicted of murder and sentenced to death by hanging. On April 7, 1866, he was executed at Mt Eden Gaol. During his final moments, he did not reveal the location of John’s body.