Mr. White's body was found in the Savannah River near Allendale, S.C., on Sept. 5, 1996. Investigators believe he died from being beaten or asphyxiated. Now, more than 2 years later, family, friends and witnesses on both sides may finally learn what happened to Mr. White and Mr. Lumpkin on Labor Day 1996. The 1st week of trial is expected to be spent in jury selection. Attorneys will have to question up to 150 potential jurors individually to find Richmond County residents who do not have any fixed opinion about Mr. Lumpkin's guilt or innocence or about what punishment he should receive if found guilty.
Testimony begins after a jury is selected.
Attorneys estimate that that part of the trial will take 1 to 3 weeks. Mr. Lumpkin practiced law in Augusta for more than 20 years. In the 1970s, he worked as an assistant prosecutor. He later established a private practice, taking civil and criminal cases. Mr. Hurst was acquitted on all charges.