START OF GROVES-HICKS MURDER TRIAL POSTPONED - Defense Attorney Baldwin Injured In Accident

(12/15/2004)
The start of the Groves-Hicks double murder trial was postponed yesterday morning after defense attorney Shannon Baldwin was injured in a car accident enroute to the Calhoun courthouse.

Judge Thomas Evans III sent the jury and other principals home shortly before 10 a.m.

Baldwin reportedly was attempting to avoid an oncoming vehicle when she swerved and hit an icy patch on U. S. 33 near the Jackson-Roane County line. Baldwin's vehicle rolled-over, but she was able to crawl out. She was taken to the hospital for evaluation.

Judge Evans indicated the trial will likely commence Wednesday morning, depending upon Baldwin's medical condition.

Sand Ridge resident Ronnie Rush, 18, is being charged with the murders.