Across the area

Deliberations to begin in teen's murder trial

A jury begins deliberations this morning to determine whether a 14-year-old killed in self-defense when he shot a neighbor to death three years ago.

The Richmond County Superior Court trial for Johnny Dinh, now 17, began Tuesday. He is accused of murder in the May 3, 2006, death of 20-year-old Rodney McGhee Jr.

Mr. McGhee's body was found on the side of Keron Way in Hephzibah. He and Mr. Dinh both lived on the street. Mr. McGhee was hit once in the chest by a .22-caliber bullet.

Log truck driver hurt in wreck with train

A North Augusta man was injured in a train-truck crash Thursday at a crossing in Newberry County, authorities said.

The train hit a logging truck driven by Ephesian Tanks, 33, on Main Street in Prosperity, leaving logs scattered along the track and leading officials to reroute traffic, according to Associated Press reports.

Mr. Tanks has been charged with disregarding a railroad signal. The extent of his injuries was not reported.

Department of Health and Environmental Control spokesman Thom Berry said diesel fuel leaking from gas tanks on the truck was contained and crews cleaned up the spill.

Schools chief pushes district flexibility bill

South Carolina Superintendent Jim Rex spoke to more than 100 Aiken residents Thursday at Schofield Middle School about supporting a bill to give school districts more budgeting flexibility.

House Bill 3352 would allow school boards to shift state money to critical areas that won't be funded because of budget shortfalls. The Aiken County school district has cut $9.5 million from this year's budget and expects a $12 million deficit in 2009-10. The bill would also provide for negotiating salaries with retired educators to keep them in the classroom.

The Aiken County school board will update the legislative delegation on the budget shortfall at 5 p.m. Monday at 736 Richland Ave. W. in Aiken. The meeting is open to the public.