🚨 The manhunt for two armed suspects continues as RCMP seeks a critical witness in a fatal shooting east of Calgary. Day 3 of the search brings new developments. 📍👮♂️ #Calgary #Alberta
.png)
Day 3 of Manhunt: RCMP Seek Critical Witness in Fatal Shooting Near Calgary"
The Ongoing Manhunt
As the manhunt for two armed suspects enters its third day, RCMP are urgently seeking the public's assistance in locating a potentially "critical" witness to a tragic shooting that occurred east of Calgary. The incident, which unfolded in a rural area on August 6, has left one person dead and another injured, prompting an extensive search and numerous public appeals for information.
The Incident: What We Know So Far
On Tuesday, around noon, a shooting took place at the intersection of Range Road 282 and Township Road 250 in Rocky View County. The victims included Colin Hough, an employee of Rocky View County, who tragically lost his life, and a FortisAlberta worker who sustained a "superficial" injury.
Colin Hough: A Tragic Loss
Colin Hough, described by his employer as a valued team member, leaves behind a wife and two young sons. His untimely death has deeply affected his colleagues and community, with an outpouring of condolences and support from the public.
The FortisAlberta Worker
The FortisAlberta employee, who was performing routine work at the scene, was fortunate to survive with only minor injuries. The incident has nevertheless shaken the local community, highlighting the random and dangerous nature of such violent events.
The Search for Suspects
Following the shooting, the suspects fled the scene in a Rocky View County fleet truck, which was later abandoned approximately 40 kilometers northeast of the original location. The RCMP's efforts to locate the suspects have been intensive, involving a shelter-in-place alert and a civil emergency declaration in nearby Wheatland County.
Vehicle of Interest
One significant development in the investigation is the identification of a dark grey Volkswagen Golf SportWagen, captured on dashcam video driving past the scene at the time of the shooting. The RCMP are now seeking information about the occupants of this vehicle, as it could provide crucial details for solving the case.
The Stolen Truck
In connection with the shooting, RCMP have also requested information about a white 2013 Dodge Ram pickup truck, stolen from a home in Calgary's Abbeydale neighborhood on Monday morning. This vehicle is believed to be linked to the suspects, and the public's assistance is sought in tracking its whereabouts and any potential sightings of its occupants.
Timeline of Events
Monday:
- 5:55 a.m.: White Dodge Ram truck stolen from northeast Calgary home.
Tuesday:
- 11:55 a.m.: Shooting at Range Road 282 and Township Road 250.
- 1:08 p.m.: Shelter-in-place alert issued for Wheatland County after the stolen truck is found abandoned.
- 1:30 p.m.: Alberta Emergency Alert issued, warning of two armed and dangerous suspects.
- 4:30 p.m.: Shelter-in-place order lifted; suspects believed to have left the area.
- 7:30 p.m.: RCMP hold media briefing on the homicide investigation.
Wednesday:
- 5:00 p.m.: RCMP update on the vehicle of interest, a white Dodge Ram truck.
Thursday:
- 1:30 p.m.: RCMP appeal for information on a potential witness captured on dashcam video.
Analysis and Commentary
The ongoing manhunt and investigation highlight several critical issues:
1. The Impact on the Community
The shooting has not only resulted in the loss of a life but has also deeply impacted the local community. The death of Colin Hough underscores the vulnerability of public workers and raises questions about the safety protocols in place for employees working in isolated or high-risk areas.
2. The Role of Technology in Investigations
The use of dashcam footage and the public's involvement in providing information are pivotal in modern investigations. This case illustrates how crucial community cooperation and technological advancements are in solving crimes and ensuring public safety.
3. The Psychological and Social Implications
The shelter-in-place alerts and civil emergency declarations reflect the gravity of the situation and the fear experienced by residents. The psychological impact of such alerts can be profound, causing stress and anxiety among the public while also highlighting the need for effective communication and crisis management by law enforcement.
Actionable Takeaways
- Stay Informed: For those in the affected areas, it is essential to stay updated through official channels and follow any advisories issued by law enforcement.
- Community Engagement: If you have any information related to the suspects or the vehicles involved, contact local authorities immediately. Community tips can be crucial in resolving such cases.
- Safety Precautions: In general, maintaining awareness of your surroundings and reporting suspicious activities can contribute to personal and community safety.
Conclusion
As the investigation continues, the RCMP's efforts to locate the suspects and gather more information remain crucial. The public's assistance, particularly in identifying the critical witness and providing any details about the stolen vehicle, could prove instrumental in resolving this case and ensuring justice for the victims.
The community's support and cooperation will be vital in navigating the aftermath of this tragic event and working towards a resolution.