Local News

As the Fourth of July approaches, residents are being reminded that fireworks laws vary widely by state, and Michigan’s rules are among the most permissive this holiday. In Michigan, people can legally set off consumer fireworks on private property from 11 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. between June 29th and July 5th. However, fireworks are banned on public property and in state parks, and illegal explosives like M-80s remain strictly prohibited, with fines reaching up to $500 or more for violations.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Families in Michigan’s Thumb can kick off Independence Day weekend with a free afternoon of activities at the Sanilac County Historic Village and Museum in Port Sanilac. The event runs Friday, July 3rd from 1 to 5 p.m. and features live music from local band The Humbuckers, exotic animal shows, and hands-on kids games. Visitors can also browse the farmers market, tour historic buildings for a small fee, and enjoy crafts, storytime, and live demonstrations throughout the day.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A change in routine paid off in a big way for a Port Huron-area woman, who won $1 million on a Michigan Lottery ticket after avoiding the heat and road construction. Officials say the 70-year-old St. Clair County resident skipped her usual walk and drove to a different store, buying a King Cashword ticket at Speedy Q on Water Street. She later scratched it at home and realized she’d hit the top prize. She chose a lump sum of about $693,000 and plans to buy a home and a car.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Federal investigators say a 20-year-old Macomb County man is facing charges after a rifle found in his home had its serial number intentionally scratched off. Authorities began looking into Eleazareli Maycock in May after alleged threats surfaced on YouTube. When deputies visited his Macomb Township home, he showed them a .22 caliber rifle he bought new in Sterling Heights. Investigators say the weapon also had disturbing writing linked to past mass shooters. Maycock is now charged with possessing a firearm with an altered serial number.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A 22-year-old Snover man is facing multiple serious felony charges after a Michigan State Police investigation uncovered alleged online child exploitation and animal abuse. Authorities say Dallas Hartley was arrested June 17th following a probe that began earlier this year, when investigators traced uploads of illegal material to his home in Sanilac County. Digital evidence was seized during a search involving local law enforcement. Hartley is charged with seven felonies, including animal torture and computer crimes. He remains jailed on a $10,000 bond and is due back in court July 1.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair County voters, including those in Port Huron, will decide August 4th whether to renew a countywide ambulance millage that funds local EMS services. The 0.4993-mill levy, about $50 a year on a $100,000 home, would run through ’29 and bring in roughly $4.3 million in its first year. EMS leaders say the funding has already improved staffing, training, and response times, including faster service in Riley Township. They warn that if the renewal fails, residents could see fewer ambulances and longer emergency response times across the county.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet