Two charged in slaying of Chicago honor student

Chicago, Feb 12 (AP) Authorities say they've filed murder charges against two gang members in the death of a 15-year-old honor student who was fatally shot last month near the Chicago home of President Barack Obama. Chicago police spokeswoman Melissa Stratton said 18-year-old Michael Ward and 20-year-old Kenneth Williams were charged yesterday with first-degree murder in connection to the death of Hadiya Pendleton. Both men also are charged with two counts of attempted murder and aggravated battery with a firearm. Police say Pendleton was talking with friends in a Chicago park when one suspect ran toward the group, opened fire and then fled in a car. The Jan 29 shooting made national headlines because Pendleton had recently returned from Washington, where she'd performed during inauguration festivities with her high school band. (AP) IRH 02120810 NNNN