The trial for a Clay Township man accused of killing a St. Clair County eviction officer is set to begin next week. Michael Stickler, 50, is charged with first-degree murder in the ’23 shooting of Robert Silver, who was serving an eviction notice at Stickler’s home. Stickler appeared in court Monday, but no plea deal was reached. Jury selection begins Feb. 4th, with prosecutors planning to call Silver’s family, law enforcement, and forensic experts as witnesses. If convicted, Stickler faces life in prison.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron police are investigating a deadly shooting that occurred early Tuesday morning. Officers responded to Vanness Street, where they found a 35-year-old man with multiple gunshot wounds. Just 18 minutes earlier, fire crews had responded to a car fire nearby, which investigators believe was deliberately set. Authorities are looking into a possible connection between the two incidents. Evidence from both scenes is being examined by the Michigan State Police Crime Lab. Anyone with info is urged to contact the Port Huron PD.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A 53-year-old Brown City man, Marion Mazurek, died in a crash Monday afternoon in Burnside Township. The accident occurred when a northbound semi lost control on Van Dyke near Wilcox Road, crossing into the southbound lane and colliding with Mazurek’s Mini Cooper. Both vehicles ended up in the ditch, and Mazurek was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities said blowing snow and icy roads from strong winds were factors, but no alcohol or speeding was involved. The investigation is ongoing.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Lapeer County man kicked off the new year by discovering he won $1 million in the Powerball drawing. Robert Benaglio matched the five white balls in the December 23rd drawing. He bought the lucky ticket at the Metamora BP on South Lapeer Road. After playing weekly for 10 years, Benaglio only realized his win on New Year’s Eve when he scanned the ticket. With his prize, he plans to pay off his vehicles, take a vacation, and save the rest.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Sanborn Gratiot Memorial Home is hosting its Dueling Pianos Fundraiser on March 14th at Alexander’s Banquet Center in Marysville. Tickets are $100 for one or $180 for two. The event promises a high-energy, interactive musical experience with classic and modern hits, where guests can sing along and make requests. Proceeds will support the home’s mission of providing safe, affordable housing and care for seniors, including those facing homelessness. For tickets, visit sanborngratiot.org. Your attendance helps make a real difference for local seniors.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Mackinac Bridge was closed to most vehicles Monday morning due to high winds reaching 50-64 mph, with only passenger cars, vans, and empty trucks allowed. The closure affected traffic heading to the Straits, and drivers were advised to reduce speeds to 20 mph as they approached. Bridge personnel were on-site to direct vehicles. The Bridge Authority required escorts for large vehicles overnight Sunday.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet