George James

Seawall Needed to Protect Water Plant

Marysville officials say the city’s Water Filtration Plant needs a new seawall to keep drinking water safe and reliable. The current wall, likely built in the 70s or 80s, is crumbling along about 500 feet of shoreline, causing cracks in the plant’s foundation and walls. Only seven feet separate the building from the river, making protection urgent. The city is seeking $750,000 in state funding but may cover costs locally if grants fall through. Final funding decisions are expected in the coming months.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Hit-and-Run

Sanilac County deputies are asking for help after a hit-and-run in Melvin left a local woman injured. The 30-year-old was struck Thursday night on Melvin Road south of town and left in a ditch. She managed to walk home before being taken to McKenzie Memorial Hospital and later transferred to Hurley Medical Center in Flint. Authorities are searching for a GMC Sierra or Chevrolet Silverado with damage on the front right and passenger side, missing its side mirror. Anyone with information or video is urged to call Central Dispatch.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Flannel Festival Brings Pioneer History

Port Sanilac is stepping back in time September 19–20 with the Sanilac Museum’s Flannel Festival. Families can explore 18th- and 19th-century pioneer life, including fur-trade camps and logging demonstrations. Visitors will see blacksmithing, chainsaw milling, period crafts, and flintlock musket shows. Live music, history lectures, yard games, and a farmers market add to the fun. Evening events include an open mic, main concert, and a cash bar featuring local Flannel Mouth Hard Cider. Admission is free with flannel; donations support local history.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Crash Kills Woman, Injures Husband

A deadly crash in Sebewaing Township left one Bay Port woman dead and her husband seriously injured last Wednesday afternoon. The couple’s SUV collided with a garbage truck on Sebewaing Road just after noon. The husband, 80, was pulled from the wreck and taken to a hospital before being airlifted out for further care. His 77-year-old wife was trapped and later pronounced dead at the scene. The 65-year-old Sebewaing truck driver was unharmed. Preliminary reports suggest the SUV driver may have fallen asleep, causing the crash.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Houle Files Pre-Trial Motions

Maurice Houle, accused in the ’18 death of 3-year-old Matthew Maison, has filed multiple motions ahead of his October trial in St. Clair County. Houle’s attorney is asking the court to dismiss the murder charge, block certain witnesses, and exclude evidence from a search warrant nine days after Matthew’s death. The defense also wants Houle’s April statements and help from prosecutors to subpoena witnesses excluded. Court hearings for these motions are scheduled for Sept. 2nd, 8th, and 29th. Houle and Amanda Maison both face murder charges in the case.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet