Benton Harbor

DNA and genealogy tracing revealed the identity. The investigation stretched from Kent County to distant relatives in Mississippi and then back to Michigan.

Michigan officials said the new results indicate that corrosion control to prevent pipes from leaching lead into drinking water is helping.

The testy exchange was among many between the water chief and state regulators.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has promised to spend millions of dollars to replace the city’s lead service lines within 18 months – a blistering pace for a process that often takes decades. For now, residents have been warned not to cook, drink or make baby formula with tap water.

The EPA said the water plant needs to make critical filter repairs and improve the use of chlorine and corrosion control chemicals.

City commissioners unanimously declared an emergency and empowered Mayor Marcus Muhammad to lead Benton Harbor’s response.

The package of bills focuses on lead in drinking water, paint and as an environmental toxin.

Replacement of Benton Harbor lead pipes in 18 months, accelerating what had been a five-year timeline announced more than a month ago.

The state said more than 15,000 cases of water will be delivered in coming days.

The Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy will provide bottled water and go door-to-door to ensure proper installation of faucet filters