Local News

The trial of Justin Simon, accused of causing the death of Port Huron school teacher Ashley Nisbett in a car crash, wrapped up its first week. Simon admitted to drinking before the crash but argues he should only be charged with causing serious injury, not death.

The defense claims Nisbett’s death was due to medical errors, not just the accident. However, the medical examiner testified that the accident was the primary cause.

The trial resumes today (Tuesday) with closing arguments and jury deliberations. Simon faces up to 15 years if found guilty.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In August, St. Clair County’s median home price was $319,900, a slight increase of 0.8% from the previous month and a 2.4% rise from the same time last year. Homes in the area averaged 1,658 square feet, listed at $183 per square foot, reflecting a 2.1% increase from August 2023. Homes sold quickly, with a median listing time of 38 days, faster than the national average of 53 days. New listings dropped by 9.3% compared to last year.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In Mayfield Township, Lapeer County, a delivery truck struck a power line on Tuesday, causing a two-alarm fire. The downed line ignited a small grass fire, which spread to a nearby shed that was completely destroyed. Firefighters from Lapeer, Deerfield, and Columbiaville responded quickly, containing the flames before they could spread further. Over 600 residents experienced temporary power outages as DTE isolated the area to ensure safety. No injuries were reported, and officials remind the public to avoid downed wires and report them immediately for safety reasons.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Sarnia man, James Courtis, has been sentenced to five more years in prison after pleading guilty to possessing two loaded sawed-off shotguns, despite a lifetime firearms ban. Courtis was arrested at gunpoint in July after police responded to a 911 call from a terrified resident. The loaded guns were found in a duffel bag hidden nearby. Courtis faced 15 charges but pleaded guilty to four. Sarnia’s police chief highlighted the dangerous situation, and the prosecutor emphasized the ongoing concern over gun crime in the area.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Seniors in Michigan’s Thumb can now apply for free monthly food assistance through Focus: HOPE’s expanded Food for Seniors Program. The program now serves Huron, Sanilac, St. Clair, Lapeer, and Tuscola counties, aiming to help 2,000 more seniors. Eligible residents 60 and older can receive essentials like milk and canned goods, with options for pickup or home delivery. Seniors in Wayne, Macomb, Oakland, and Washtenaw counties can also access food boxes at health centers. Focus: HOPE encourages seniors to apply by emailing food@focushope.edu or visiting a distribution site.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Ryan Nisbett testified Thursday about the tragic death of his wife, Ashley, a Port Huron Northern High School teacher, following a drunk driving crash on Lakeshore Road. Ashley, who had survived for four days after the accident, passed away last October 24th. The man accused of causing the crash, Justin Simon, is on trial for operating a vehicle while intoxicated, causing death. The defense questioned the medical treatment Ashley received, suggesting hospital errors, but the medical examiner confirmed her death was due to the crash. Simon faces up to 15 years if convicted.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet