George James

A local father received life in prison without parole last week for the horrific shooting that killed his 17-year-old son and left two other children with lifelong injuries. Jeffery Smerer, 45, opened fire on his kids as they got ready for school last September, shooting his son Kayleb from behind before wounding the younger ones in their bedrooms. His daughter now uses a wheelchair. The surviving children bravely spoke in court, saying they could not understand how their once-loving dad could do this. The judge called it a tragedy beyond words.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A ship once familiar to Port Huron’s waterfront has sunk in New York Harbor. The 154-foot vessel, now called “Pilot,” went down late last Wednesday while docked. From ’02 to ’11, it served as a floating classroom in Port Huron, teaching Great Lakes students basic sailing skills. The ship later became a floating bar and restaurant. It also carried historical significance, with past service in World War II and on research trips with Jacques Cousteau. No injuries were reported, and investigators are now working to determine what caused the sinking.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Organizers in Port Huron are calling for volunteers to join the Rotary International Day Parade during Boat Week next Wednesday, July 15th. Community members are encouraged to sign up early, with the first 50 participants invited to walk the route blowing bubbles alongside the group. Check-in begins at 5 p.m. at The Closet by A Beautiful Me on Huron Avenue, with the parade stepping off at 6:30 and pickup around 8 p.m. A $10 fee includes a new T-shirt, snacks, and water for walkers.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A popular Clyde Township restaurant is facing major repairs after a 5 alarm weekend fire. Owners of the Dorsey House say the bar area was heavily damaged, and there is no clear timeline for reopening. Crews were called out around 2:30 Sunday afternoon and had the fire under control in just over an hour, with no injuries reported. The building was closed for scheduled renovations at the time, and only one person was inside. Fire officials are now working with insurance investigators to determine what caused the fire.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron is getting ready for a week of tennis as the 69th annual Robinson Tournament returns to Sanborn Park and the Port Huron Tennis House from July 28th through August 2nd. Free events start the 27th, including a kids play day and warm-up clinics for players. Matches begin Tuesday with finals on Sunday, bringing in competitors from across Michigan, other states, and Canada. Organizers are also inviting community members to take part now through a T-shirt design contest ahead of the tournament.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet