QUESTIONS REMAIN SURROUNDING THE DEATH OF ROY COOPER AND THE HOUSE FIRE

Wise County, Texas – October 14, 2025 — The family and close friends of Roy Cooper are continuing to seek answers surrounding the tragic fire that claimed his life earlier this year. Despite modern advancements in fire investigation technology—capable of identifying a blaze’s point of origin, burn pattern, and potential cause—many details remain unresolved.

In 2024, one of Mr. Cooper’s sons contacted the Wise County Sheriff’s Office several times expressing concern for his father’s well-being and requesting welfare checks. Friends and relatives had noticed a sudden decline in Mr. Cooper’s health. According to the family, a recorded call documents an assurance that a welfare check would be conducted; however, records show that the visit was never completed.

Just five days before the fatal fire, a meeting took place involving the Wise County Sheriff, representatives from the Texas Rangers, and members of the Sheriff’s Department. The purpose of that meeting, according to those in attendance, was to address concerns regarding previous investigations and to document potential threats to Mr. Cooper’s safety.

During the meeting, background information about an ongoing legal dispute was also shared, involving the transfer of Cooper family land to Mr. Cooper’s former spouse. Mr. Cooper had reportedly expressed that he did not authorize the transfer and that no notary was present at the time of signing. Text messages and communications from Mr. Cooper suggest he believed the deed change was “temporary,” and several close contacts recall his distress regarding the issue.

On the night of the fire, local authorities were reminded of these prior concerns and the troubling timing—just five days after the safety warnings had been formally documented.

Outstanding Questions About the Investigation

The Cooper family continues to express concern that not all available investigative methods—such as accelerant testing, material analysis, or advanced arson detection—were fully utilized to determine how the fire spread so rapidly. They also note that some individuals who lived with and cared for Mr. Cooper have not been interviewed.

In addition, documentation obtained during the investigation reportedly shows that an insurance policy was taken out on Mr. Cooper’s home and belongings, listing parties without an apparent direct insurable interest in the property. The family hopes that this aspect of the case will receive further review to ensure all procedures were properly followed.

Toxicology findings have raised additional questions. Reports indicate a high level of Ambien in Mr. Cooper’s system—enough to cause significant incapacitation. The prescription, though written for Mr. Cooper, had not been filled before 2025 and was obtained the same day as the fire. Those close to him stated they were unaware of his taking or needing the medication.

While officials have suggested a candle may have caused the blaze, the family has been informed that this conclusion cannot be definitively proven.

“Our goal is not to make accusations,” a family spokesperson stated. “We simply want a complete and transparent review of every available fact so that Roy’s memory is honored with truth and accountability.”

Foundation Established to Support Continued Investigation

To ensure independent oversight and promote transparency, the family has established the Roy Cooper Foundation, a nonprofit effort to fund additional analysis and expert review of investigative findings. The foundation’s first initiative involves hiring an independent fire investigator to review the official reports from the Medical Examiner and Fire Marshal.

Anyone with information relevant to the case is encouraged to contact [email protected].

Contributions to support the Foundation’s work can be made via Venmo: @RoyCooperFoundation.