A Lapeer County murder case is on hold after a judge ruled the suspect is not competent to stand trial. Authorities say 32-year-old William Channer Jr. of Columbus Township shot and killed his former boss, Logan Welch, at Trims Unlimited in Almont last November. Channer later led deputies on a high-speed chase before being shot and arrested. A forensic evaluation found him incompetent but “restorable,” meaning treatment could allow the case to move forward. Prosecutors say the court will review his condition monthly.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A former Michigan school employee is now facing serious charges after a months-long investigation. Sixty-year-old Duane Paehlig, once the maintenance director for Sandusky Community Schools, was arraigned in Sanilac County court and did not enter a plea. Prosecutors accuse him of embezzling at least $20,000, committing forgery, and damaging school property. Police say searches at his home last October turned up district-owned items. He is being held on a $100,000 bond and is due back in court June 9. If convicted, he could face years in prison.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Sanilac is getting a major boost to its harbor. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is awarding the village $1.65 million to begin upgrades at the municipal marina, including pier repairs, fuel dock replacement, and utility work. The project is part of more than $4 million in statewide boating grants supporting seven communities. With local matching funds, the total investment tops $6.5 million. The program, funded by boat fees and gas taxes, helps improve public access to Michigan waterways.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Michigan is securing a major military upgrade with ripple effects nationwide. Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed a $152 million funding bill to modernize Selfridge Air National Guard Base near Detroit, improving runways and taxiways ahead of a new fighter mission. The move also unlocks nearly $800 million in federal investment. The base is transitioning to F-15EX fighter jets, replacing aging A-10 aircraft, with new KC-46A refueling tankers set to arrive starting in ’27 as part of a broader military overhaul.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet