Macomb County Man Gets Life Sentence
A Macomb County man will spend the rest of his life in prison after a jury found 42-year-old Matthew Lewinski guilty of killing his ex-girlfriend inside his home in late ’20. Prosecutors say an argument turned violent when 52-year-old Courtney “Jerri” Winters showed up unannounced, ending with Lewinski choking her to death. He then hid her body in his basement for months. The crime surfaced after a medical emergency led family members to the home. Lewinski later confessed, and that statement helped secure his conviction and life sentence without parole. Authorities say the victim had not been reported missing during that time.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet
Port Huron Murder Case Expands
A Port Huron murder case is growing more serious as two suspects now face additional charges tied to a deadly home invasion. A St. Clair County judge approved the new counts after hearing evidence that Vincent Buckles’ Vanness Street home showed signs of forced entry before his January 2025 shooting death. Prosecutors say the killing was planned, while both suspects deny responsibility and blame each other. Separate jury trials are scheduled this fall, with each defendant already facing possible life sentences if convicted.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet
Michigan Congressional Delegation Presses Canada on Wildfire Smoke
Michigan’s congressional delegation is once again urging the Canadian government to take stronger action to reduce the wildfire smoke that has repeatedly blanketed the Great Lakes region with hazardous air quality. In a letter dated July 15, Representatives John James, Jack Bergman, John Moolenaar, and Lisa McClain called on Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to provide measurable steps being taken to reduce wildfire risk and protect neighboring communities.
The lawmakers noted that Michigan has experienced multiple years of dangerous smoke conditions, forcing air quality alerts and affecting children, older adults, dialysis patients, and others with health concerns. They argue that previous assurances from Canadian officials have not produced meaningful results and say their constituents deserve action rather than additional promises.
The delegation also suggested the United States may need to reconsider its role in cross border wildfire cooperation if conditions do not improve. The letter asks Canada to explain what has changed since last summer and what specific actions will be taken before next year’s wildfire season to reduce smoke reaching the American Midwest.