Crash Spurs Manhunt
Deputies increased patrols in East China Township after five men ran from a Thursday morning crash at King and Meisner roads. The St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office say three had been caught, while two remained on the run as police dogs searched the area. East China Schools briefly locked down as a precaution but classes soon resumed. Officials said the men were not armed or dangerous and the public was safe. No injuries were reported from the crash.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet
Family Receives Support
Port Huron’s community is rallying around a family hit by a recent shooting that killed a 17-year-old and injured his 12- and 13-year-old siblings. An anonymous donation is helping the family with housing and a modified van for the recovering children, while a GoFundMe page has raised over $64,000 toward a new $150,000 goal. Updates show the 12-year-old girl is regaining some mobility, giving hope to the family. The accused shooter, 44-year-old Jeffery James Smerer, faces multiple charges, including murder and child abuse.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet
County Mobilizes Mental Health Support
St. Clair County is reeling after three local high school students died suddenly, including a 17-year-old in a Port Huron shooting that also injured two siblings. The county’s mental health agency is working with Port Huron and Algonac schools to support students and families. Officials urge parents to talk openly with children, monitor for signs they want to share their feelings, and limit social media exposure. St. Clair County Community Mental Health offers counseling and a 24/7 mobile crisis unit for anyone struggling.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet
Port Huron Moves to Rezone Dunn Mill Site
Port Huron leaders are moving to rezone the old Dunn Paper mill site on Riverside Street to push new housing, mixed-use projects and better waterfront access. Crown Enterprises, which bought the 13-acre property in ’23 for $1.2 million, wants to use it for bulk material storage and has fought the change through attorneys’ letters. City Manager James Freed said Crown’s plan does not meet current zoning rules. Mayor Anita Ashford backed rezoning after hearing from residents but stressed the shoreline’s safety. A final vote is set for next Monday.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet