Local News

A man convicted in the death of his girlfriend’s 3-year-old son is headed to prison for decades. A judge sentenced 29-year-old Maurice Houle to at least 31 years, telling him she was appalled by his treatment of the boy. Prosecutors say Matthew Maison died from strangulation and other injuries in 2018, and evidence pointed to years of abuse before his death. Houle pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in June. The boy’s mother, who admitted covering up the abuse, is set for sentencing next month.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Sandusky bicyclist is recovering after being struck by a car. Police say a 21-year-old man was hit while crossing South Elk Street near Mills Street just before 11:40 a.m. Monday. Investigators say a 17-year-old driver from Yale couldn’t stop in time. The bicyclist suffered serious injuries and was rushed to McKenzie Hospital before being transferred to a Flint-area hospital for further treatment. Alcohol isn’t believed to be a factor. Sandusky Police, Sanilac County Sheriff’s deputies, EMS, and Michigan State Police all responded, and the crash remains under investigation.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A convicted sex offender already on probation for home invasion and criminal sexual conduct is back behind bars in Warren, accused of spying on a young girl through her bathroom window. Police say a mother’s call sent officers to a Pinto Street home, where they found 22-year-old Justin Moore hiding in the backyard before he ran through nearby yards and was caught. Investigators later found digital evidence suggesting a broader pattern of stalking. He now faces multiple felony charges, including stalking a minor.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair County residents needing emergency or overnight hospital care will soon have to travel elsewhere. Henry Ford Health’s River District Hospital is shutting down its inpatient and emergency departments, shifting those services to nearby facilities. Health officials say the aging building needed costly repairs that weren’t sustainable long-term. The hospital will keep offering primary care, infusion treatments, labs, pharmacy and imaging on-site. For emergency care, patients in East China Township will now be directed to Henry Ford’s Medical Center in New Baltimore, the closest ER option.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A century-old gathering place for military veterans at 1026 Sixth Street is being sold off, as the American Legion post can no longer keep up with rising utility costs and shrinking membership. Leaders say most remaining members are seniors, with younger veterans turning to social media instead of in-person posts. Despite the loss, organizers insist the group’s mission matters more than its building, and plan to refocus on community volunteer work supporting veterans’ mental health and housing needs going forward.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron’s football team opened its season last week with a statement win, battling back to beat Anchor Bay 28-21 in double overtime. Quarterback Jax Johnston scored 3 touchdowns to power the comeback, while the Red Hawks’ defense sealed the victory on a fourth-down stop in the final overtime. Coach Dan Perkins praised his defense and special teams for stepping up all game. The win snaps a 3-game losing streak against the Tars and gives Port Huron a strong start to the season.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet