By Billy Davis

A murder trail set to begin Monday will be delayed until May because a key witness for the state is delivering a child.

Codie Allen Banton is accused of shooting to death Shane Keel Sr. during an argument between Keel and Banton’s father, Harley Banton.

The state’s witness saw the shooting, said Assistant District Attorney Jay Hale. Hale did not identify the witness.

The incident took place on April 26, 2008, at Harley Banton’s home located at 2787 Highway 6 East.

Authorities said at the time that Codie Banton shot and killed Keel with a high-powered rifle.

Harley Banton is also facing a charge of aggravated assault related to the incident.

With the murder trial delayed, Hale said jurors will be summoned today to hear an aggravated assault trial.

Barrett Lydell Hamilton and a co-defendant, Jason Towns, stand accused of beating Michael Rudd with a gun and ax handle.