Local news media reported that a high school student in Maceio was shot in the face after a motorist forced his way through the demonstrators' barricade. Protesters were attacking the car when a shot was fired. The extent of the 16-year-old's injuries was not immediately known.(MoneyWatch) Microsoft () is in a world of hurt on its traditional business front. and customer complaints about the company's user interface drove it to .

Biden and Cruz have both demurred when asked about their 2016 prospects, but their speeches tonight will do nothing to tamp down the speculation. In fact, visits to early states for party fundraisers are an easy way for politicians to test the presidential waters without having to declare their intentions. They are visiting for the good of the party, to honor a former officeholder, or to buck up a local candidate. In Biden's case, South Carolina Democrats are hoping his visit will spark further enthusiasm for .

In the closed-door sessions, doctors provided evidence that the packet can't be even forced into the mouth while the person is still alive but must be after his death.

Rebels with the Yarmouk Martyrs Brigades are holding the peacekeepers, a spokesman said in a phone interview. The Yarmouk Brigades were behind the abduction in March of 21 Filipino U.N. peacekeepers released unharmed after four days of negotiations. The spokesman spoke on condition of anonymity because he was outside of Syria serving as a mediator on peaceful matters concerning the group.

Mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said Thursday that the rate on the 30-year loan increased to 3.98 percent. That's up from 3.91 percent last week and the highest since April 2012. The average rate was last at 4 percent or higher in March 2012.