St. Clair County is reeling after three local high school students died suddenly, including a 17-year-old in a Port Huron shooting that also injured two siblings. The county’s mental health agency is working with Port Huron and Algonac schools to support students and families. Officials urge parents to talk openly with children, monitor for signs they want to share their feelings, and limit social media exposure. St. Clair County Community Mental Health offers counseling and a 24/7 mobile crisis unit for anyone struggling.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

McKenzie Health System is breaking ground on its new hospital in Saginaw County this fall. The ceremony is set for Wednesday, October 1st, at the future hospital site off Gates Road. The public can park at the former Kmart lot and walk or ride golf carts to the site. The new facility will expand from 48,000 to 68,000 square feet, bringing together services now spread across multiple buildings. Funding includes a $74 million USDA loan. The project also adds a wide M-46 entrance, a Gates Road entrance, and ample parking.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron leaders are moving to rezone the old Dunn Paper mill site on Riverside Street to push new housing, mixed-use projects and better waterfront access. Crown Enterprises, which bought the 13-acre property in ’23 for $1.2 million, wants to use it for bulk material storage and has fought the change through attorneys’ letters. City Manager James Freed said Crown’s plan does not meet current zoning rules. Mayor Anita Ashford backed rezoning after hearing from residents but stressed the shoreline’s safety. A final vote is set for next Monday.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Marine City will come alive with art Sept. 27th, as the third annual Art Drift returns. Downtown shops, studios, and restaurants will host pop-up galleries, live demonstrations, and performances, giving visitors a chance to explore local businesses while enjoying original artwork. This year, about 20 artists will participate, including a new youth showcase for creators ages 8 to 17. An interactive scavenger hunt will guide attendees through art stops with fun challenges and prizes. The event also features dance, theater, and author readings.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Port Huron father is now facing life in prison after a shocking family shooting. On Tuesday, 44-year-old Jeffery James Smerer was arraigned in St. Clair County District Court on 10 felony charges, including open murder and two counts of assault with intent to murder. Prosecutors say Smerer shot and killed his 17-year-old son and critically injured two younger children on September 11th. One child remains hospitalized and paralyzed. Smerer allegedly admitted planning the attack for a week. He was denied bond and will return to court September 23rd for a probable cause hearing.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Three truck drivers are facing federal drug charges after authorities seized millions of dollars of suspected drugs in Southeast Michigan. In Detroit, customs agents found $12.5 million worth of suspected cocaine hidden in oat flour shipments in a Canadian-plated truck. In St. Clair County, authorities stopped two other drivers moving about $1 million of suspected methamphetamine near Port Huron. All three were charged with possession with intent to distribute and remain in federal custody as investigations continue.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet