Local News

In Port Huron, a cold snap did not stop about 40 people from gathering Saturday at Lakeside Cemetery to honor hundreds buried without names in the paupers’ section near the Black River Canal. A new memorial stone and bench now mark Section AA, where more than 400 people are believed to rest. Organizer Erik Wurmlinger, whose grandfather is buried there, led the effort after a missing family marker was rediscovered. City leaders say the tribute ensures those once forgotten are now recognized and remembered.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A 55-year-old Michigan woman who shot her husband inside their Marine City home has agreed to a plea deal. Christine Hurley-Arnold admitted to attempted firearm discharge and attempted assault, along with a domestic violence charge. Prosecutors dropped two felony firearm counts as part of the agreement. Police say the shooting happened last November on South Elizabeth Street, where her husband was hit in the leg while sitting on a couch. She faces up to five years per charge and will be sentenced June 15th.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A St. Clair County case is back in court as prosecutors fight to keep two men locked up for life from a ’10 murder. James Preston and Jonathan Kurtz are asking for new sentences after a court ruling affecting young offenders, since both were 18 at the time. But prosecutors argue the killing of Paul Skinner was carefully planned and should still carry life without parole. Investigators say the pair plotted the attack, killing Skinner and seriously injuring his wife, who says anything less than life in prison would be an injustice.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A St. Clair County case involving a Michigan political family is moving toward trial this summer. Kellie Lauwers, former treasurer of the Yale Chamber of Commerce and wife of State Sen. Dan Lauwers, is accused of embezzling more than $30,000 from the organization. Prosecutors say she wrote checks to herself, forged signatures, and altered financial records to hide the activity. A jury trial is now set for July 7th. A plea hearing is planned for June 29th. If convicted, she faces up to 10 years in prison.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A tense standoff ended with a St. Clair County man now facing serious charges after a domestic assault involving a gun. State Police say 44-year-old Edward Nankervis of Avoca allegedly attacked a 38-year-old woman Monday at a home on Kilgore Road in Kenockee Township. The woman managed to escape and call 911 from a nearby house. Troopers say Nankervis then barricaded himself inside for hours before surrendering. He now faces ten charges, including unlawful imprisonment and felony firearm, and is being held on a one-million-dollar bond.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair County residents can access a wide range of free services at one event later this month. The Community Resource Fair is happening May 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the SC4 Fieldhouse in Port Huron. Organizers expect more than 750 people seeking help with housing, employment, food, and health needs. Attendees can pick up groceries from a mobile food pantry, get personal care items, and connect with local agencies. The Secretary of State will also be on site with a mobile office offering ID services.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet