George James

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

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

Three truck drivers are facing federal drug charges after authorities seized millions of dollars of suspected drugs in Southeast Michigan. In Detroit, customs agents found $12.5 million worth of suspected cocaine hidden in oat flour shipments in a Canadian-plated truck. In St. Clair County, authorities stopped two other drivers moving about $1 million of suspected methamphetamine near Port Huron. All three were charged with possession with intent to distribute and remain in federal custody as investigations continue.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Port Huron father is now facing life in prison after a shocking family shooting. On Tuesday, 44-year-old Jeffery James Smerer was arraigned in St. Clair County District Court on 10 felony charges, including open murder and two counts of assault with intent to murder. Prosecutors say Smerer shot and killed his 17-year-old son and critically injured two younger children on September 11th. One child remains hospitalized and paralyzed. Smerer allegedly admitted planning the attack for a week. He was denied bond and will return to court September 23rd for a probable cause hearing.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Amanda Maison’s attorney has asked a St. Clair County judge to move her murder trial to another area, citing concerns the local community may be biased. The request points to the “Justice for Matthew” movement, which has held events, posted yard signs, and even displayed a billboard in Port Huron honoring Matthew Maison, who died in ’18 from blunt trauma and mechanical asphyxiation. A hearing on the request is set for Oct. 17th before Circuit Court Judge Cynthia Lane.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Sanilac County’s Historic Village & Museum will host a free reunion concert with folk favorites The Greenlanders on October 5th. The group, originally from the 1960s, plays hits from the ’60s through the ’80s, including songs from The Beatles, Eagles, and John Denver. Members are traveling from France, New York, and nearby towns to perform, with local musician Dennis possibly joining on congas. Light drinks and snacks will be available, and donations will support the Museum. Before the concert, volunteers are invited to help decorate the grounds for the upcoming Haunted Village.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet