Local News

St. Clair County voters, including those in Port Huron, will decide August 4th whether to renew a countywide ambulance millage that funds local EMS services. The 0.4993-mill levy, about $50 a year on a $100,000 home, would run through ’29 and bring in roughly $4.3 million in its first year. EMS leaders say the funding has already improved staffing, training, and response times, including faster service in Riley Township. They warn that if the renewal fails, residents could see fewer ambulances and longer emergency response times across the county.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A change in routine paid off in a big way for a Port Huron-area woman, who won $1 million on a Michigan Lottery ticket after avoiding the heat and road construction. Officials say the 70-year-old St. Clair County resident skipped her usual walk and drove to a different store, buying a King Cashword ticket at Speedy Q on Water Street. She later scratched it at home and realized she’d hit the top prize. She chose a lump sum of about $693,000 and plans to buy a home and a car.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Federal investigators say a 20-year-old Macomb County man is facing charges after a rifle found in his home had its serial number intentionally scratched off. Authorities began looking into Eleazareli Maycock in May after alleged threats surfaced on YouTube. When deputies visited his Macomb Township home, he showed them a .22 caliber rifle he bought new in Sterling Heights. Investigators say the weapon also had disturbing writing linked to past mass shooters. Maycock is now charged with possessing a firearm with an altered serial number.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A 22-year-old Snover man is facing multiple serious felony charges after a Michigan State Police investigation uncovered alleged online child exploitation and animal abuse. Authorities say Dallas Hartley was arrested June 17th following a probe that began earlier this year, when investigators traced uploads of illegal material to his home in Sanilac County. Digital evidence was seized during a search involving local law enforcement. Hartley is charged with seven felonies, including animal torture and computer crimes. He remains jailed on a $10,000 bond and is due back in court July 1.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A case tied to a confrontation at a Marine City meat market is heading to trial this week. Prosecutors say Ian Pfister used pepper spray as a weapon during a January incident outside Zimmerman’s Meat Market. Video shows owner Richard Hobig walking toward Pfister before being sprayed. Pfister claims he thought he was about to be attacked, but Hobig says he was trying to speak with a nearby police officer. Jury selection is set for today, and Pfister could face up to two years in jail if convicted.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron seniors have a free summer outing to look forward to next month at Pine Grove Park. A community picnic for residents age 60 and older is set for July 14th from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Registration begins at 11, with a free lunch served from 11:30 to 12:30 by the Council on Aging serving St. Clair County. Live music from Ian Smith and Company is also planned. If weather interferes, updates will be shared locally, with a rain date scheduled for July 21.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet