A Port Huron father will spend the rest of his life in prison after killing one child and seriously injuring two others inside their apartment last fall. A judge sentenced 45-year-old Jeffery Smerer to life without parole for the death of his 17-year-old son, Kayleb, and added decades for the shootings of his younger children, who survived with lasting injuries. The attack happened as the kids were getting ready for school. In court, the children spoke about the trauma and loss, while the judge called the case a tragedy beyond description.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Warren firefighter and school board member is facing charges after prosecutors say he sent inappropriate Snapchat messages to an 18-year-old. Thirty-seven-year-old Adam Mazur-Baker was arraigned on charges including using a computer to commit a crime and malicious use of telecommunications. Officials say the teen blocked him after receiving concerning messages, though specifics were not released. Mazur-Baker is free on bond with no contact orders. He has been placed on administrative leave, and recently resigned from the Warren Consolidated Schools Board as the investigation continues.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A St. Clair County woman has pleaded guilty after authorities found nearly 100 animals dead on her property. Forty-eight-year-old Connie Wonner accepted a plea deal June 22nd, admitting to reduced charges tied to animal neglect and abuse. Investigators say when animal control visited in March, animals were kept without food or clean water, some in extreme heat or freezing conditions, and living in filthy enclosures. Of roughly 200 animals on the property, about half were dead. Wonner is scheduled for sentencing August 14th.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet