In 1959, Robert Raymond Cook was accused of one of the most shocking crimes in Canadian history: the murder of his father, stepmother, and five younger siblings in their home in Stettler, Alberta. Convicted and eventually executed, Cook has remained a controversial figure. Some believe he was a cold-blooded killer, while others insist he was wrongfully accused and that doubts about the investigation were never resolved.
This episode looks back at the Cook family murders, the trial that followed, and the lingering questions that continue to divide opinions more than sixty years later.
Wikipedia – Robert Raymond Cook
Broad overview with dates, narrative, and reference pointers.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Raymond_Cook
“60 years later Cook family massacre still haunts Stettler” (Sylvan Lake / local news retrospective)
A more modern reflection, including quotes from locals and historical context.
Legal Archives — Last Man Hanged Virtual Gallery
Photos, archival documents, exhibits, and commentary connected to the Cook case.
https://legalarchives.ca/project/last-man-hanged/
People Magazine article: “A Family of 7 Was Slain…”
A narrative retelling with a modern lens; useful for summaries, quotes, and thematic framing.
https://people.com/robert-raymond-cook-family-murders-alberta-canada-11735020
YouTube: “Alberta's last hanged man: Robert Raymond Cook”
A video documentary or mini-feature covering Cook’s execution and background.
