Local News

A jury in St. Clair County has cleared Justin Simon of causing a Port Huron teacher’s death in a drunk driving crash but found him guilty of operating a vehicle while intoxicated, leading to serious injury. Simon admitted to causing the October accident, which left Ashley Nisbett hospitalized. His lawyer argued the hospital played a role in her death, but the prosecution said Simon was responsible since the crash put her there. Simon will be sentenced on Nov. 26, facing up to five years in prison.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In rural Lambton County, two Windsor seniors who had recently celebrated their 57th wedding anniversary were killed in a tragic crash. Omer and Marilyn Hageniers were involved in a collision with a tractor-trailer at Inwood Road and Courtright Line last week. Omer, 79, and Marilyn, 77, had dedicated their lives to their family and community—Omer as a successful engineer and Marilyn as a compassionate nurse. A memorial service was held in Windsor Wednesday, followed by a funeral today.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Sanilac County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s help following a vandalism incident at Ben’s Great Outdoors in Marlette Township on Saturday, around 10:20 PM. The office is looking for information on a blue pickup truck that was seen at the scene. If anyone has details about the truck or its owner, they are urged to contact Sanilac County Central Dispatch at 810-648-2000 Ext. 2 or get in touch with Deputy Matt Washe. Your tips could help solve this case.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In the Sarnia area, a couple has been charged twice in just two months following drug busts near Arkona. On September 6, police seized about $8,500 worth of suspected fentanyl and methamphetamine from a vehicle on Arkona Road, arresting Jacob Kaczanowski, 36, and Jamie Millier, 34, from Kettle and Stony Point First Nation. Both face trafficking charges. Kaczanowski is in custody awaiting a bail hearing, while Millier is out on bail with a court date set for October 2nd.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In Burtchville Township, Lisa Tramski, 57, was sentenced to one year of probation for embezzling money from a woman she once cared for. St. Clair County Judge Daniel Damman gave Tramski a lighter sentence because she repaid the stolen funds and had no prior criminal record. Tramski had been a guardian for Pauline Runyon, who left her money in a new will made shortly before her death. The state argued Tramski influenced Runyon to change her will, but Tramski repaid $51,600.75 and admitted to embezzlement in a plea deal.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A resurfacing project began Monday on Wadhams Road in southern St. Clair County, closing the road between Puttygut and Fred Moore Highway for two weeks. The $610,000 project, managed by Ace Saginaw Paving, involves tearing up the current road surface, laying fresh asphalt, and grading the shoulders for better drainage. Local traffic, including homes and businesses within the construction zone, will still have access, but drivers are advised to expect delays and plan alternate routes. The St. Clair County Road Commission oversees the project, aiming to improve road conditions.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet