Pair to Face Trial Together
In Port Huron, two people charged in a deadly January shooting on Vanness Street will be tried together. Dazman Drake, 23, and Sayon Florence, 36, face open murder charges for the death of Vincent Buckles. Prosecutors say Drake shot Buckles with an illegal gun after Florence, who shares a child with Buckles, asked him to scare Buckles over a child abuse complaint. Florence claims she didn’t intend for Buckles to be killed. Their joint pretrial hearing is set for June 9th in St. Clair County Circuit Court.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet
Health Department Moves to New Location
Starting Monday, June 9th, the St. Clair County Health Department is moving its main office from 28th Street to a new downtown location at 220 Fort Street in Port Huron. Some services will pause the week before, from June 2nd to June 6, and certain programs may be limited or remote during that time. The public is invited to an Open House on June 26, from 4 to 6 p.m., to tour the new facility and enjoy refreshments. For updates, visit scchealth.co
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet
Ship Drifts Near U.S. Shore
On Wednesday, the American Spirit, a huge 1,000-foot cargo ship, drifted close to the U.S. shore while moving upriver on the St. Clair River near the Blue Water Bridge. The strong current in that spot likely pushed the vessel toward the American bank before it corrected its path. This U.S.-flagged ship, part of the American Steamship Company, can carry over 62,000 tons and is powered by powerful diesel engines. The close call caused concern but ended without incident.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet
Historic Fire Station B Demolished
In Port Huron, the old Central Fire Station, a 65-year community landmark, is being torn down to make way for new possibilities along the Black River. The site was cleared of asbestos and approved for teardown late last year. The demolition, which started May 19th and will wrap up by June 23rd, follows the fire department’s move to a modern 10th Street station last August. The outdated 515 River St. building couldn’t meet today’s needs, so the city’s giving retired firefighters engraved bricks to honor their service.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet