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
Fire Chief Forced to Resign
Lexington’s longtime Fire Chief, Keefe Radtke, resigned last Monday after more than 20 years with the department, including eight as chief. Radtke said the village council forced his resignation without explanation, ignoring his requests for clarity. He criticized village leaders for secrecy, mismanagement, and failing to support the fire department. Radtke reassured the town his departure isn’t leaving service behind, but refusing to work under unaccountable leadership. This follows Village President Kristen Kaatz’s May resignation over council conflicts.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet
TEC Gets $7,800 Tool Donation
TEC in St. Clair County got a major boost for its Construction Trades program. Local company Marshall E. Campbell and partners donated over $7,800 in tools and safety gear to help students gain hands-on experience with professional-grade equipment. The donation included saws, drills, hand tools, sawhorses, gloves, and other safety supplies. Additional support came from Milwaukee Tool and MCR Safety, expanding resources for students to train safely and effectively. School leaders say the contributions will directly enhance learning opportunities.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet