Local News

A Columbus man is facing life in prison after being charged in a deadly shooting at an Almont business. Prosecutors say 32-year-old William Channer III shot and killed 30-year-old Logan Welch on the morning of November 5th. Police say Channer fled the scene, sparking a chase that ended near Imlay City, where deputies shot and injured him during a confrontation. He’s now charged with first-degree murder and several firearm-related felonies. A judge denied him bond, and his next court date is set for next Monday.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair County’s Great Start Home Visiting Program, which has helped families with young children for 20 years, will end next June due to state budget cuts. The free program offered home visits and group events, guiding parents with early learning tools and spotting developmental concerns. Each year, about 1,000 local families participated. RESA says one-on-one visits will stop, but group gatherings with songs, art, and story time may continue if new funding is found. Officials are actively seeking grants to keep these events alive.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Early last Friday morning, St. Clair County deputies responded to a home on W. Water Street after a resident reported gunfire. Officers quickly spotted a white Pontiac G6 matching the suspect description nearby. A felony traffic stop led to the arrest of three 18-year-old men inside the vehicle, along with an AR-15, ammunition, and shell casings. Cameron Maydwell, Tristan Aldrich, and Bryant Heinz were arraigned on multiple felony charges including discharging a firearm in a building, discharging a weapon from a vehicle, and felony firearm possession. Bonds were set at $50,000 each.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Authorities in St. Clair County have recovered a vehicle linked to a missing woman from Madison Heights. After tracking her phone to the Algonac Boat Launch, the county’s Marine Division used sonar to locate a submerged car. Dive teams from St. Clair County and several neighboring departments worked together to bring the vehicle to the surface. Sheriff Mat King praised the teamwork and persistence of all agencies involved, saying their cooperation ensures communities get the best possible response in difficult situations.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Wings Etc. Grill & Pub in Port Huron honored local veterans and active-duty service members on Monday by offering a free entrée valued up to $13.99. The promotion, available for dine-in guests who provided proof of service, was part of the restaurant’s effort to show appreciation for those who have served the nation. CEO Rob Hensmann says the initiative was a tangible way to recognize the sacrifices of active-duty and retired military personnel. While some restrictions applied, the gesture allowed the town to come together in gratitude.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair County RESA’s Early Childhood Department has earned Blue Ribbon status from ‘Parents as Teachers’, marking it as one of the top home visiting programs in the U.S. The program provides home visits, playgroups, child screenings, and community resources to help local families prepare children for school success. This is the second time receiving the honor, confirming its high-quality services meet national standards. The Great Start Home Visiting program has supported families here for over 20 years, though state budget cuts will end the program next June.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet