Oct. 27, 2025, marked the 50th anniversary of a tragic event in Ottawa that continues to resonate within the city to this day. In October 1975, a distressed high school student named Robert Poulin committed a heinous act by raping and murdering his 17-year-old neighbor, Kim Rabot, a student at Glebe Collegiate Institute. After this horrific incident, Poulin proceeded to his school, St. Pius X Catholic High School, armed with a sawed-off shotgun. He entered his religion class and opened fire, injuring several students, including Mark Hough, who tragically succumbed to his injuries over a month later. This incident marked one of the first mass shootings in a Canadian high school.
The aftermath of these events left a lasting emotional impact on those involved, with many struggling to openly discuss or cope with the trauma. CBC Ottawa embarked on a multimedia project to shed light on the events of Oct. 27, 1975, delving into CBC’s archives to understand how the media covered the murders five decades ago within a different media landscape.
The project commenced with an examination of the coroner’s inquest that revealed unsettling details about Poulin and sparked debates on gun control. It also provided insight into the Poulin family’s experience. Subsequent videos showcased rare footage of the aftermath at St. Pius X and featured personal accounts from individuals affected by the tragedy.
Further stories in the series highlighted the memories and impact of Kim Rabot and Mark Hough, as well as the experiences of survivors and alumni from St. Pius X. Through interviews and reflections, the project aimed to honor the sacrifices made by individuals who endured the tragedy without seeking recognition.
The 50th anniversary served as a platform for individuals to share their experiences and seek closure, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and addressing the lasting effects of such traumatic events. The series aimed to bring awareness to the ongoing emotional repercussions and provide a platform for healing and remembrance.