Closing arguments set in trial over SIU student's death

MURPHYSBORO, Ill. (AP) — Closing arguments are set to begin in trial of man charged with first-degree murder in the February 2014 death of a Southern Illinois University student.

Twenty-three-year-old Gaege Bethune of Eldorado, Illinois, is accused of striking Pravin Varughese (VAHR'-geez) several times and driving off, which led to his death from hypothermia. The jury in Murphysboro will hear closing arguments Thursday.

Prosecutors contend an intoxicated Bethune and the 19-year-old Varughese drove around Carbondale looking for cocaine. After an unsuccessful search, prosecutors say the pair fought.

Bethune testified that he told a state trooper that Varughese, wearing only a T-shirt and blue jeans, ran into the woods.