PARKER, CO – A man staying with his elderly landlord in Parker was convicted Friday after jurors found him guilty of attacking the homeowner with a piece of wood during a heated argument over unpaid debts, then attempting to hide the evidence by washing away blood from the scene.
The Elbert County jury returned felony convictions against Daniel Fougner, 65, who faced charges of assaulting an “at-risk” person and tampering with evidence. Prosecutors described the crime as a shocking act of violence against a man who had opened his home out of kindness.
The incident unfolded in October 2024 outside a residence in Parker, roughly 25 miles southeast of Denver. According to the District Attorney’s Office, Fougner was temporarily living at the victim’s home. Trouble began when the landlord, age 80, confronted Fougner and requested repayment of money he was owed.
An argument rapidly escalated, and authorities say Fougner picked up a two-by-four and struck the landlord twice in the head. Medical experts testified that the blows caused a subdural hematoma, which put the victim’s life in jeopardy and required immediate hospitalization in an intensive care unit.
Following the attack, prosecutors stated that Fougner quickly attempted to erase signs of the assault by using a garden hose to wash blood from the driveway. He then left the property. Law enforcement apprehended him in Castle Rock, about 13 miles south of the crime scene.
Officials noted the shocking nature of the assault, emphasizing the vulnerability of the victim due to his age and the trust he extended to Fougner by allowing him to stay in his home. They said the verdict brings a sense of justice to a case that rattled the local community.
The victim was transported to AdventHealth Hospital in Parker, where he received intensive care. Authorities reported that he is expected to survive his injuries, although the violent nature of the assault raised serious concerns about his recovery early on.
Jurors weighed the evidence over the course of the trial, including testimony both about the extent of the injuries and Fougner’s actions after the offense. The swift attempt to remove evidence, investigators said, indicated a clear awareness of wrongdoing.
Fougner remained in custody following his conviction, awaiting sentencing scheduled for December 1. He faces a potential prison term of 16 to 48 years, a sentence that could see him behind bars well into his senior years.
Prosecutors said the case serves as a grim reminder of the risks that can emerge even in acts of generosity, especially for older adults who may be more susceptible to harm.
At the conclusion of the trial, district officials expressed hope that the outcome would reinforce accountability and provide some measure of closure to the victim and his loved ones.