A bail hearing has been set for December 19 for Elijah Blake Strawberry, one of two men charged in connection with the tragic death of Airdrie resident and Rocky View County employee, Colin John Hough. Hough, remembered as a father and beloved community figure, was fatally shot on August 6 near Conrich, where he had stopped to assist after noticing a burning vehicle.
Elijah Strawberry and Arthur Wayne Penner, both facing second-degree murder and attempted murder charges, remain in custody. Their alleged involvement in this high-profile case stirred strong reactions throughout Airdrie and Rocky View County, bringing the matter to public attention. Following his arrest on September 13, Strawberry’s legal team requested a full-day hearing, aiming to secure bail while awaiting trial.
The incident unfolded rapidly on the afternoon of August 6. Hough, alongside a FortisAlberta worker who was also injured, encountered Strawberry and Penner near a burning truck, reportedly during an attempted robbery. After the shooting, the suspects fled the scene in one of the victim’s work vehicles, prompting a police alert and widespread manhunt involving various law enforcement agencies, drones, and helicopters. Authorities found the abandoned vehicle using GPS data, though the suspects initially evaded capture.
The RCMP launched an extensive investigation, including offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to Strawberry’s apprehension. Through public alerts, police also urged residents to remain cautious, citing Strawberry as armed and dangerous. On August 8, authorities identified Penner, arresting him with Edmonton Police’s assistance, while Strawberry was apprehended over a month later on O’Chiese First Nation after being located through coordinated provincial efforts.
A memorial fund for Hough raised nearly $100,000 to support his family, honoring his legacy as a community-oriented individual known for helping others. In December, Strawberry’s bail hearing will scrutinize his eligibility for release, with Penner’s trial preparations expected to continue as well.
This ongoing case highlights the collective mourning of a community and underscores the intense investigative and legal processes unfolding to seek justice for Hough.
