Robert William Fisher, born April 13, 1961, in Tucson, Arizona, is a name that sends chills down many spines. Accused of one of the most heinous crimes in Arizona history, Fisher allegedly murdered his wife and two children before blowing up their Scottsdale home in 2001. Why has Robert Fisher evaded capture for nearly two decades? This question has baffled investigators and the public alike. Fisher's life, marked by a troubled childhood, military service, and a seemingly normal suburban existence, hides dark secrets. His case remains one of the most perplexing mysteries, with theories ranging from suicide to living under an assumed identity.
Key Takeaways:
- Robert Fisher's early life was marked by significant events, including his parents' divorce, which left him with deep emotional scars and contributed to his troubled relationships later in life.
- Despite presenting himself as a devoted family man, Robert Fisher's private life told a different story, marked by violent incidents, marital problems, and emotional turmoil, leading to a tragic turn of events in 2001.
Early Life and Background
Robert William Fisher's story begins in Tucson, Arizona, where he was born on April 13, 1961. His early years were marked by significant events that shaped his future.
- Robert Fisher grew up in Tucson, Arizona.
- His parents divorced when he was 14, leaving him with deep emotional scars.
- This painful separation contributed to his erratic behavior and troubled relationships later in life.
Military and Career
Fisher's career path took several turns, starting with his time in the military and later transitioning to healthcare.
- After high school, Fisher joined the U.S. Navy.
- He failed in his attempts to become a Navy SEAL and left the military in 1982.
- Fisher then pursued a career as a respiratory therapist and cardiovascular technician.
Meeting Mary Cooper
Fisher's personal life took a significant turn when he met Mary Cooper, leading to a seemingly typical suburban family life.
- Fisher met Mary Cooper through a church group in 1983.
- They married within a year and moved to Scottsdale, Arizona.
- The couple had two children, Brittney and Bobby.
Public Persona vs. Private Life
Despite presenting himself as a devoted family man, Fisher's private life told a different story.
- On the surface, Robert Fisher appeared to be a God-fearing family man.
- Friends and acquaintances described him as having a cruel streak.
- This dichotomy between his public persona and private life became a recurring theme in the investigation.
Incidents of Violence
Fisher's behavior raised concerns among those who knew him, marked by several violent incidents.
- In 1989, Fisher shot a stray pit bull that had wandered into his yard.
- Police later determined he had incited a fight between the two dogs.
- This incident was one of several where Fisher's behavior was questioned.
Hunting Trips and Gun Use
Fisher's love for hunting often revealed his darker side.
- Fisher often went on hunting trips, sometimes firing his gun randomly into the air.
- His hunting friend, Jim Roden, described him as having a dark side he struggled to control.
- Roden once observed Fisher berating his wife for forgetting salt and pepper during a camping trip.
Marital Problems
Fisher's marriage faced numerous challenges, including infidelity and constant arguments.
- Mary Fisher complained to friends about her husband’s constant need for sex.
- In 1998, Robert confessed to having an affair, further straining their relationship.
- After discovering the infidelity, Mary threw him out of the house, and Robert left to camp in the woods.
Threats and Suicidal Ideation
Fisher's emotional turmoil led to threats and suicidal thoughts.
- Distraught over the separation, Robert wrote Mary a letter expressing his inability to live without her.
- He threatened to kill himself in the letter.
- Upon returning home, he promised to be a better husband and father, carrying around cards with Bible verses.
Paranoia and Infidelity Concerns
Fisher's paranoia about his infidelity being discovered added to his stress.
- In late 2000, Robert told a co-worker he had contracted a urinary tract infection after visiting a masseuse.
- Despite denying any sexual activity, he became paranoid that his wife would find out about the affair.
Argument on April 9, 2001
The events leading up to the tragic night began with a loud argument.
- On the evening of April 9, 2001, neighbors heard Mary and Robert Fisher arguing loudly in their Scottsdale home.
The Tragic Night
The night of April 10, 2001, marked a horrific turn of events.
- On the morning of April 10, 2001, a home in Scottsdale burst into flames.
- Inside, Mary Fisher and her two children were found dead, their throats slashed.
- The house was destroyed, and Robert Fisher was nowhere to be found.
Investigation and Clues
The investigation into the murders and arson yielded few clues about Fisher's whereabouts.
- The investigation was extensive but yielded few clues.
- Robert Fisher left behind no clear evidence of his whereabouts.
FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives List
Fisher's case gained national attention, landing him on a notorious list.
- Robert Fisher spent nearly two decades on the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list.
Ongoing Investigation
Despite the passage of time, the search for Robert Fisher continues.
- The Scottsdale police still receive tips about Robert Fisher on a weekly basis.
- Investigators remain hopeful they will eventually track him down and bring him to justice.
The Enduring Mystery of Robert Fisher
Robert Fisher's case remains one of America's most perplexing unsolved mysteries. From his troubled childhood to the tragic events of April 2001, his life has been a mix of violence and secrecy. Despite extensive investigations, Fisher has managed to evade capture for nearly two decades, leaving behind a trail of speculation and unanswered questions. The FBI and local authorities continue to receive tips, but his whereabouts remain unknown. His story has captivated the public, sparking numerous theories about his fate. Whether he's living under an assumed identity or met an untimely end, the search for Robert Fisher goes on. This case serves as a stark reminder of the complexities of human behavior and the challenges law enforcement faces in solving such intricate cases. The quest for justice for Mary Fisher and her children continues, keeping their memory alive.
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