A 12-member Court of King's Bench jury has found two men guilty of second-degree murder in the killing of a Rocky View County worker on a rural Alberta road two years ago. Elijah Blake Strawberry and Arthur Wayne Penner were convicted late Saturday afternoon in the shooting death of Colin Hough near Conrich.
Details of the Verdict
The jury also returned guilty verdicts for both men on two charges each of armed robbery. These charges stem from the theft of Hough's work truck after the shooting and an attempted theft of a FortisAlberta worker's company pickup, during which Matthew Andres was shot in the arm.
Mandatory Life Sentence
A conviction for second-degree murder carries a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment. Justice Shane Parker will now determine how long Strawberry and Penner must wait before becoming eligible for parole. The jury may submit recommendations regarding the period of parole ineligibility.
Background of the Case
Colin Hough, a Rocky View County employee, husband, and father of two, was fatally shot on August 6, 2024. It is believed he was trying to assist the two men with their burning truck when he was killed. Strawberry and Penner were charged with second-degree murder in connection with the incident.
Next Steps
The jury began deliberations on Friday after receiving final legal instructions from Justice Parker. A two-day sentencing hearing is expected later this year, during which victim impact statements will be presented. Further details will follow as the case progresses.
