RCMP manhunt for shooting suspect continues
By John Watson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Alberta RCMP have confirmed the search for Elijah Blake Strawberry, one of the suspects in the Rocky View Shooting, Aug. 6, is still ongoing.
Police have released they believe Strawberry is still in Alberta and have not issued any more information so as to not potentially alert him and hinder police efforts.
Strawberry is described as being 6-feet, 1-inch tall, 169 ponds, having several arm and face tattoos and brown hair.
RCMP advise the public Strawberry is considered armed and dangerous, and should not be approached if seen. Instead, any member of the public who may witness Strawberry is asked to call 911 immediately.
Staff Sgt. Mark Wielgosz, detachment commander at the Strathmore RCMP, said Strawberry is not believed to be actively targeting the public, and comparisons should not be made to other incidents in that regard.
“I want to stress that we are bringing all resources available to bear in an effort to find Mr. Strawberry. And as in my prior messaging, I want to ensure that if Mr. Strawberry is watching or anyone known to him, to do the right thing and turn yourself in,” said Wielgosz. “With the dedication and efforts of our investigative teams, you will be found. Again, we want to see a safe, peaceful resolution to this portion of the investigation, and we are welcoming any tips from the public or any assistance that they may have to help bring this part of the investigation to a close.”
Alberta RCMP disclosed Aug. 16, in partnership with Crime Stoppers, any successful tip that leads to the arrest of Strawberry is now eligible for a $2,000 reward.
“We are open to receiving tips from anyone, regardless of what walk of life they are coming from. We are following up on all tips to ensure we are obtaining all evidence that we can in relation to the investigation, but certainly if any information is received that leads us to Mr. Strawberry’s whereabouts and leads to his apprehension, of course we would accept any tips,” said Wielgosz.
“Tips from the public, tips from the ‘underworld’ … or from anyone, any walk of life. If there is information that they have, we are asking for it.”
Prior to the initial publication of this article, the last update released by the RCMP took place Aug. 17. RCMP have stated they will aim to provide significant updates regarding the investigation as often as possible.