Burrier v. Mutual Life Insurance Co. of New York

Plaintiff brings this action to recover on a $10,000 policy of life insurance; the defense is suicide.

On May 2, 1957, the defendant insurance company issued to Ralph O. Burrier its policy in the face amount of $10,000. It contained the following provision:

“Suicide — In event of the suicide of the Insured, sane or insane, within 2 years after the date of issue, the amount payable by the Company shall be limited to the amount of the premiums paid.”

Ralph O. Burrier was found dead on September 1, 1958, less than 2 years after the date of issuance. To the claim of his widow, Rachel Burrier, the…