In Richmond, William Kucharski Jr., landed in hot water after his dad’s Labrador retriever was found dead in his arms. The 49-year-old faced 63 days behind bars after pleading no contest to animal cruelty, a lesser charge than the original killing accusation. A vet couldn’t pinpoint the dog’s death cause, only noting age-related health woes. Macomb County’s prosecutor pushed for a fair outcome, while Kucharski now faces a mental health check and separate charges in St. Clair County for arson and assault from last October.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Folks in St. Clair County can now dodge long ER waits at McLaren Port Huron hospital. The hospital’s new online scheduling lets patients with minor issues like bad coughs or twisted ankles pick a treatment time that suits them at mclaren.org/porthuron. Dr. John Brooks, the top doc there, says it’s perfect for planning care without replacing 911 for big emergencies. Staff still check online sign-ups for serious symptoms like chest pain, reaching out if someone needs to hightail it to the ER or call for help.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Sanilac County Historical Society is hosting a Spring Rebirth Dinner Fundraiser on April 26 from 5 to 7 PM at Libby’s Cove in Port Sanilac. Guests will enjoy a gourmet meal from Huron Street Cafe, including Chicken and Shrimp Scampi and cheesecake with fresh fruit. The event features spring-themed activities, flower displays, and golf cart transportation from Port Sanilac Lutheran Church. Proceeds support the Historical Society’s projects. Tickets are $55 for members, $65 for non-members. Purchase online or at the Historical Society’s office.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

This weekend, folks in Kimball Township will see a big change on their commute. The Michigan Department of Transportation is shutting down part of Interstate 69 to tear down the old Allen Road bridge. Starting tonight at 7, both sides of I-69 will close until Monday morning at 6 a.m. It’s all part of a $2.1 million fix-up, with detours set via Wadhams, Griswold, Range, and I-94. Allen Road will also close at I-69, rerouting drivers through Lapeer and Range. The full project wraps up in July.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron is investing over $20 million to improve the area between McLaren Port Huron Hospital and St. Clair County Community College. The project aims to create affordable housing, fix roads, and repair sidewalks. This includes the Lincoln Lofts apartment complex, offering 40 units, 14 of which will help families facing housing insecurity. Streets like Kearney, Willow, and Elk will get repairs, and lead water lines will be replaced. Stone Street will be removed, as it no longer serves a purpose.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A St. Clair Township man is dead after being shot by his 24-year-old son. The St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office responded to a 911 call Monday evening around 7 p.m. from a family member. Deputies arrived at the home on Gratiot Road to find the 56-year-old victim with multiple gunshot wounds. Despite life-saving efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene. The son was arrested without incident and is now in custody. The investigation is ongoing, with local authorities and the Michigan State Police Crime Lab involved.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet