Local News

A violent rollover crash left a young driver seriously hurt after being thrown more than 15 yards from the vehicle. Tuscola County deputies say it happened just before 2:30 a.m. Saturday near North Lake and Swaffer Roads in Watertown Township. Investigators believe the northbound car veered off the road, flipped several times, and landed in a field. The 24-year-old Vassar man was airlifted to a hospital. Several local agencies responded. The crash remains under investigation.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron is getting a fresh riverfront hangout just in time for summer. The new pavilion at Military Street Bridge Pocket Park on Water Street now overlooks the Black River, giving residents a shaded spot to relax and take in the view. Construction wrapped up in late May, and city leaders are planning a public celebration July 6th from six to eight p.m., featuring live music. The park also includes accessible walkways, glass railings, and seating areas designed for small gatherings along the waterfront.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron city leaders are reshaping how local government runs, cutting a vacant deputy city manager position and promoting five longtime employees to keep services moving. City Manager James Freed says the changes will save about $86,000 a year while improving service for residents. Rob Churchill moves into special projects, Ashly Filipiak takes over McMorran Place, Katie Gardner leads recreation and wellness, Jason Kuhlman oversees green infrastructure and cemeteries, and Ben Pionk manages parks and beaches, all now reporting directly to the city manager.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair County groups are being invited to help shape the region’s public spaces with new outdoor art. The Blue Water Arts Committee is offering grants for permanent pieces placed on publicly accessible property, including private land. Projects must already have a location, design, budget and timeline, and applicants must cover at least half the cost. Funding can pay for materials, installation and artist travel, but not staff time. Applications require renderings, cost estimates and property approval, with the next deadline set for July 16th.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A St. Clair County man will face a murder trial tied to a toddler’s ’18 death in Port Huron Township. Maurice Houle, 29, pleaded guilty Monday to resisting officers during his arrest, but the felony murder charge remains. Jury selection is set for June 23rd. The child’s mother, Amanda Maison, has already pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and is expected to testify. Prosecutors say the three-year-old died from blunt force injuries and asphyxiation. Houle maintains his innocence and faces life in prison if convicted.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A father and son from outside the area are safe after a tense rescue off Lake Huron near Oak Beach in Huron County Saturday afternoon. Deputies say both were sailing small boats when strong winds pushed them away from shore around 4 p.m. The son made it back with help from nearby boaters, while crews found the father about an hour later in the water and pulled him aboard a fireboat. He was treated for exposure. Officials credit life jackets and warn changing lake conditions can turn dangerous fast.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet