Local News

The Port Huron Police Department is mourning the loss of retired K9 Liv, a black Labrador retriever who passed away last week at 13 years old after her health declined. Liv found her calling in law enforcement when she was donated to the department. From 2012 to ’16, she excelled as a narcotics detection dog, earning multiple awards for her contributions. After her retirement, Liv enjoyed her golden years with her former handler, Lieutenant Chad Smith, and his family.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Shane McKibben, a veteran in law enforcement, is set to return as chief of police in Brown City, the same place where he launched his career over 25 years ago. He will succeed Ron Smith, the longtime chief. After years with the Warren Police Department, McKibben retired last June, but later decided he wasn’t ready to leave policing behind. Following his application, the council officially appointed him as chief, pending contract approval. City manager Chuck Bennett expressed confidence in McKibben’s extensive experience, anticipating a smooth transition for the department.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A tragic crash in Riley Township led to the death of a driver after their vehicle caught fire. Friday morning, multiple drivers reported a white Toyota Sienna swerving erratically on eastbound Interstate 69, reaching speeds from 25 to 90 mph. Witnesses saw the van veer off the road, travel about 250 feet, and collide with a tree. Despite attempts by passersby to rescue the driver, the vehicle became engulfed in flames before they could get them out. Authorities suspect the driver may have been under the influence of aerosol chemicals.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Thumb Area Transit (TAT) is moving forward with plans for a new facility after receiving a significant $10 million grant from the state. This funding, part of the Intermodal Capital Investment Grant program, aims to enhance public transit services. The organization has outgrown its current facility, which can’t support its expanding fleet of 60 buses and growing employee base. With the project costing an estimated $32 million, TAT is looking for additional funding.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Repairs to the Black River Canal in Port Huron are set to start in less than two weeks, following City Manager James Freed’s approval of a contract with Trojan Development Company. The company will install a cofferdam and remove the damaged tainter gate. After evaluating six bids, they selected the most cost-effective option with the quickest completion time. This project is the first of three phases, which will include installing a new tainter gate, building seawalls, and reinforcing the canal banks.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Sanilac County voters will decide on local measures in the upcoming election. Lexington Township seeks millages for road work and public safety. Fremont and Speaker Townships address wind-farming regulations, with Speaker also proposing a millage for road repair. Moore Township wants to renew a millage for road work. Wheatland Township seeks a millage for fire protection. Port Sanilac and Lexington villages propose millage renewals for community center funding and general funding increases, respectively.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet