A Port Huron murder case is growing more serious as two suspects now face additional charges tied to a deadly home invasion. A St. Clair County judge approved the new counts after hearing evidence that Vincent Buckles’ Vanness Street home showed signs of forced entry before his January 2025 shooting death. Prosecutors say the killing was planned, while both suspects deny responsibility and blame each other. Separate jury trials are scheduled this fall, with each defendant already facing possible life sentences if convicted.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Michigan’s congressional delegation is once again urging the Canadian government to take stronger action to reduce the wildfire smoke that has repeatedly blanketed the Great Lakes region with hazardous air quality. In a letter dated July 15, Representatives John James, Jack Bergman, John Moolenaar, and Lisa McClain called on Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to provide measurable steps being taken to reduce wildfire risk and protect neighboring communities.

The lawmakers noted that Michigan has experienced multiple years of dangerous smoke conditions, forcing air quality alerts and affecting children, older adults, dialysis patients, and others with health concerns. They argue that previous assurances from Canadian officials have not produced meaningful results and say their constituents deserve action rather than additional promises.

The delegation also suggested the United States may need to reconsider its role in cross border wildfire cooperation if conditions do not improve. The letter asks Canada to explain what has changed since last summer and what specific actions will be taken before next year’s wildfire season to reduce smoke reaching the American Midwest.

A new school-based health clinic is opening in Port Huron to make it easier for students to get care without leaving campus. Community First Health Centers will run the Teen Health Center at Port Huron High School starting July 27, offering checkups, sports physicals, vaccines, mental health support and more during the school day. The center will be open weekdays from 7:30 to 4:00. A ribbon cutting is set for July 23rd, as leaders say the clinic will help students stay healthy and focused in class.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Port Huron man is now awaiting sentencing after admitting to multiple child exploitation charges. Twenty-year-old Edison Tran pleaded guilty to five counts tied to possessing explicit images of minors and using social media to pressure teenage girls into sending nude photos. Investigators say the case began last fall after a tip from another police department led to a search of his home and phone, where several illegal images were found. Tran faces up to 20 years in prison, with sentencing set for late August.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A city investigation in Port Huron clears City Manager James Freed of claims he accessed Mayor Anita Ashford’s emails, with council members voting 7-0 to release the findings publicly. Independent attorneys reviewed records, interviewed staff and examined examples provided by Ashford, but found no proof Freed accessed or controlled her city or personal accounts. The report also found no support for claims others helped him. While Freed welcomed the results, Ashford says she plans to pursue further legal action, keeping the dispute ongoing.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron seniors planning to attend the annual Senior Picnic will need to adjust their plans due to dangerous heat in the forecast. The Port Huron Recreation Department and St. Clair County Council on Aging have postponed the free event at Pine Grove Park to Tuesday, July 21st. The picnic will still run from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., with lunch served between 11:30 and 12:30, along with live music. Organizers say the change is meant to keep residents 60 and older safe while still offering a fun community gathering next week.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet