A Lexington man now faces a more serious charge after a violent encounter with bail bond agents at a Roseville gas station. Prosecutors say 45-year-old Aaron Hildreth tried to flee during a June 18th arrest attempt near 12 Mile and Gratiot, crashing into an agent’s vehicle and pinning the agent between cars. Authorities say he hit the vehicle again before another agent shot him in the arm. A judge added a higher felony charge and sent the case to circuit court. Hildreth remains jailed on a $250,000 bond, with arraignment set for July 20th.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Port Huron nonprofit is turning small donations into big impact this month, asking residents to drop off 24-count crayon packs to help fill school kits for children in Guatemala. A Beautiful Me hopes to collect 1,000 boxes, which will be distributed to thousands of elementary students through its longtime partner, Servant Ministries. Organizers say even low-cost purchases, sometimes just 25 cents, can help provide essential learning tools. Donations are being accepted all month at The Closet by A Beautiful Me on Huron Avenue in downtown Port Huron.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Sarnia’s new interim police chief is stepping in with a focus on keeping the department steady and connected to the community during a leadership shakeup. Mike Federico, a veteran officer with decades of experience, takes over while Chief Derek Davis remains on paid leave amid a workplace investigation. Federico says his job is to keep day-to-day policing running smoothly, support officers, and rebuild public trust. He plans to meet directly with residents and community leaders, stressing that strong relationships are key to maintaining safety across Sarnia.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

One of the Blue Water Area’s signature summer celebrations returns as Blue Water Fest comes to downtown Port Huron July 15 through 18. The four day festival celebrates the excitement of the world famous Bayview Mackinac Race while offering fun for the entire family. Festival highlights include the Rotary International Day Parade, live concerts, the Blue Water Street Fair featuring more than 80 vendors, OT’s Family Night, the Mannequins Making a Difference fundraiser, food trucks, classic car show, a drone show, and front row views as hundreds of sailboats begin the Bayview Mackinac Race on Saturday. Downtown restaurants, shops, and the Social District add to the festive atmosphere throughout the weekend. Many events are free to attend. For the complete schedule, entertainment lineup, and festival information, visit  TheBlueWaterFest.com⁠. 

Deputies in Wales Township say a woman who reported an assault at a fast food restaurant on July fifth had been abused for days inside a home. Investigators say two men living with her repeatedly beat her, threatened her with a gun, and held her against her will. Both suspects were arrested without incident. Thirty-year-old Tariq White faces a second-offense domestic violence charge with a ten-thousand-dollar bond. Thirty-nine-year-old Aimeir White faces multiple felony charges, including unlawful imprisonment, weapons offenses, and drug delivery, with bond set at two hundred fifty thousand dollars.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Northstar Bank in Bad Axe is rolling out a new training program aimed at building the next generation of local banking professionals. Partnering with West Michigan Community Bank and Mainstreet Community Bank, the effort targets early-career hires, giving them hands-on experience, mentoring, and a broad look at how community banks serve businesses. The first group recently met for intensive training. Bank leaders say the goal is simple—develop skilled employees who can support local companies, strengthen relationships, and help keep community banking strong across Michigan.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet