Shivangi Sinha
Hulu’s ‘Murdaugh: Death in the Family’ delves into the lives of the powerful Murdaugh family, with one of its key storylines centered on the 2019 boat crash that claimed the life of Mallory Beach. Paul Murdaugh was later indicted on multiple charges related to the accident. Over the years, several survivors of the crash have spoken publicly about the events of that night and its aftermath. Among the most significant voices has been that of Anthony Cook, Mallory’s boyfriend at the time, who has openly shared his grief and the deep emotional impact the incident had on him and those close to Mallory.
Anthony Cook Looked for Mallory Beach for Hours After the Accident
On Friday, February 23, 2019, Anthony Cook attended a house party on Paukie Island, located near his hometown in Lowcountry, South Carolina, along with his then-girlfriend, Mallory Beach. They were joined by several friends, including Miley Altman and her boyfriend, as well as Anthony’s cousin, Connor Cook. Paul Murdaugh was also present, accompanied by his friend and Mallory’s close friend, Morgan Doughty. According to Anthony, Paul arrived at the party on his family’s boat, and around midnight, the group decided to leave together on the same vessel.
Anthony later alleged that Paul was clearly intoxicated, and though he briefly considered taking a cab home with Mallory, he ultimately chose to stay with the group. Describing the events of the early morning of February 24, 2019, Anthony alleged that Paul Murdaugh was behaving recklessly, creating chaos on the boat. He said there were loud arguments and growing tension, and noticing that Mallory was frightened, he decided to sit on the floor of the boat with her on his lap to comfort her. Moments later, the boat crashed into the Archer’s Creek Bridge in Beaufort, South Carolina, throwing Anthony, Mallory, and Paul overboard.
Anthony said he kept calling Mallory’s name, but got no response, and eventually had to climb back onto the boat. While heading back to shore, he was overcome with guilt and devastation and said that he blamed himself for not being able to protect her. He immediately called his mother to tell her what had happened. According to reports, Anthony had dislocated his shoulder in the crash but refused to leave the scene until Mallory was found. He only went to the hospital the next morning.
Anthony Cook Has Spoken About His Experiences on various Platforms
In the immediate aftermath of Mallory Beach’s death, Anthony Cook faced immense emotional difficulty and kept a low profile for months. In December 2021, he filed a lawsuit against Alex Murdaugh (Paul Murdaugh’s father), the convenience store where Paul allegedly purchased alcohol, and the clerk who allegedly sold it to him. By July 2023, according to court records, Anthony was part of the settlement awarded to the victims of the accident, receiving $1 million, which brought the matter to a close. Since then, he has shared his experiences and insights about the incident and his association with the Murdaugh family in various documentaries, including ‘Murdaugh Murders: A Southern Scandal’, ’48 Hours’, and ‘Low Country: The Murdaugh Dynasty.’
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Anthony Cook is Balancing His Responsibilities as a Father and Husband Today
Anthony Cook now resides in Hampton, South Carolina, where he runs A+ Land Services, LLC, a company specializing in land management, property maintenance, and related services. He is an active member of his community and frequently participates in animal rescue efforts, particularly focusing on saving and rehabilitating puppies in the area. Known for being outspoken, Anthony also raises concerns publicly on issues affecting his local community. Outside of his professional and community work, Anthony is an avid deer hunter, a hobby he pursues with great enthusiasm and dedication.
On a personal level, he has built a stable and fulfilling life. In April 2023, he married Caleigh Smoak Cook, whom he adores and credits for bringing love and stability into his life. The couple recently welcomed a daughter, Eaddy, and Anthony has embraced fatherhood with joy and commitment. Balancing family, work, and personal passions, Anthony has found a sense of peace and fulfillment in his life after what he experienced in his past.
