Local News

A Port Huron woman accused of a deadly shooting last fall is now claiming insanity. Court records show the notice was filed March 3rd by 34-year-old Samantha Oile, charged in the October 13th killing of 30-year-old Reginald Franklin at a gas station on Military Street. Prosecutors say surveillance video captured Oile firing several shots, including one to Franklin’s head. Under Michigan law, the insanity defense requires proof the defendant couldn’t grasp the wrongfulness of their actions. Her trial begins April 15th in St. Clair County Circuit Court.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Cass City High School student accused of threatening Cass City Public Schools has been formally charged. Police say 19-year-old Hudson Bowers was arrested March 5th and arraigned in Tuscola County District Court on a felony charge of making a terrorist threat. Bond was set at $250,000, and investigators seized several firearms from Bowers’ home as part of the case. Authorities say there’s no ongoing threat to the school or community, and Bowers is facing up to 20 years in prison if convicted.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron’s plan to reopen the Black River Canal now hinges on support from its neighbors. City leaders unveiled a $5.6 million repair proposal that would rebuild the canal’s damaged flood gate, shut down since an ice jam in early ’24. City Manager James Freed says Port Huron would cover about 60 percent, using bonds and special assessments on riverfront properties. But the rest — nearly $2 million — would need to come from Port Huron Township and Fort Gratiot Township. Freed says the project can’t move forward without their support.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Burtchville Township woman has pleaded guilty after stabbing her boyfriend on Thanksgiving Day. Prosecutors say 28-year-old Taylor Spigner admitted to assault and domestic violence charges Monday as part of a plea deal. Spigner had been facing attempted-murder counts but those were dropped. Investigators say she claimed she stabbed her boyfriend because he entered her personal space. Court records show she also stabbed him in a separate incident last May. Spigner faces up to 15 years in prison when she’s sentenced April 20th before Judge Michael West.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Sarnia’s patio season is officially open, and local restaurants, cafés, and bars can now apply to set up temporary sidewalk patios. The city’s program runs through October 30th, giving businesses a chance to expand outdoors while bringing new life to streets in the downtown and Mitton Village areas. Two patio options are available—small setups right on the sidewalk or larger curb-lane platforms. Applications cost $50, and city officials say the patios help make Sarnia’s business districts more vibrant and welcoming all summer long.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Kellie Lauwers — wife of state Senator Dan Lauwers of Brockway Township — has been charged in St. Clair County with embezzlement and using a computer to commit a crime. Investigators say Lauwers, the former treasurer of the Yale Area Chamber of Commerce, made 11 unauthorized transactions between ’22 and ’24, including a $4,000 mobile deposit. Michigan State Police led the investigation. Each charge carries up to 10 years in prison. Senator Lauwers declined to comment, and authorities say Kellie Lauwers’ whereabouts are currently unknown.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet