Crashes tie up Route 28 trafficPITTSBURGH — A pair of crashes today backed up traffic for miles on Route 28, a major highway linking Pittsburgh to its northeastern suburbs.The crashes occurred shortly after 6 a.m., including one that left a vehicle burning in the left inbound lane near RIDC Park, an industrial park in O’Hara Township, about 10 miles northeast of the city.There were no immediate reports of serious injuries, but inbound rush-hour traffic was jammed.

Judge dismisses Bill Cosby lawsuitPITTSBURGH — A federal judge has dismissed a defamation lawsuit filed by a Pittsburgh-area woman who claims Bill Cosby defamed her when he and his representatives responded to allegations that he drugged and sexually assaulted her and other women.Thursday’s decision dismisses the October lawsuit filed by Renita Hill, 48, with prejudice. That means she cannot try to amend and re-file the suit.Hill sued Cosby, saying she was made out to be a “liar” and “extortionist” when the comedian, his wife and his attorney issued blanket denials to claims that Cosby drugged and molested women.

Board backs school superintendentIMPERIAL — School officials are defending a superintendent after questions have been raised about an anti-bullying workshop in which middle schoolers answered personal questions.Students at West Allegheny Middle School were asked last week to step into a circle and answer questions related to sexual orientation, religion and financial issues. They were also asked about the education levels of their family members, drug and alcohol usage and household marital status.School board President Debbie Mirich says the board supports Superintendent Jerri Lynn Lippert, district administrators and teachers.