A man facing capital murder charges in Augusta died Friday afternoon.

Ronald Banks, 55, who had liver cancer, was hospitalized and placed on life support Thursday, Sheriff Ronnie Strength said.

Mr. Banks was arrested with Lacy Barnard, 19, and Antonio Jones, 26, on charges that include murder and armed robbery last spring.

Investigators say the three lured two men to a secluded area off Brickyard Pond Road and ambushed them March 27.

Eladio Gonzalez, 23, died from gunshot wounds. Jose Mochica was also shot several times, but he survived and managed to crawl to Gordon Highway.

The case against Ms. Barnard and Mr. Jones is proceeding, and prosecutors will seek death sentences if the defendants are convicted of murder.

Judge Michael N. Annis, who is assigned to the case, heard motions Friday. Though Ms. Barnard's and Mr. Jones' pretrial hearings are combined, they must be tried separately.

Assistant District Attorney Ashley Wright said Friday they have not decided who will stand trial first.

Each defendant has pleaded not guilty.