Where I Live: Former Cooper resident recovering from tragic loss in fire

by The FWR Staff, Fort Worth Report
December 27, 2025

By Matthew Eubanks

I moved to Fort Worth about five years ago, during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. I was still in my senior year of high school, which made the transition especially difficult. Adjusting was overwhelming, but Fort Worth slowly began to feel like home.

Fast forward to 2025, and I can honestly say this past year has been one of the hardest I’ve experienced. 

I was living in The Cooper apartment complex on Rosedale Street when a devastating fire broke out, causing massive damage to the complex and displacing over 800 residents, including me. In a matter of hours, I lost nearly everything I owned. 

All of my furniture and personal belongings were destroyed, including some items that held deep sentimental value. One of the hardest losses for me was my acoustic guitar, something I cherished and still miss to this day.

I was present when the fire first started and witnessed firsthand how terrifying and traumatic an event like that can be. I vividly remember residents screaming and crying as they stood in the grass, helplessly watching their homes burn. 

It was a scene I will never forget. Once the initial shock wore off, I had to quickly shift into survival mode and figure out my next steps. For the first few nights, I stayed in a hotel before temporarily moving in with my dad. Eventually, I found a studio apartment downtown, where I currently live.

While I am thankful to have a roof over my head, the experience at The Cooper left a lasting impact on me. To be honest, it has made me uneasy about apartment living in general. I still struggle to feel fully safe and comfortable in my current studio, as it resembles The Cooper in some ways. I am looking forward to my lease ending next year, and I hope to rent a house with roommates where I can finally feel more secure and settled.

Despite everything, my experience living in the Near Southside had its positives. The area has a unique charm that I truly miss. 

There are so many cute local shops and amazing restaurants along Rosedale Street and Magnolia Avenue that make the neighborhood feel vibrant, welcoming and family-driven. Parents with their kids walk around, visiting the small mom-and-pop restaurants and shops.

If you ever have the chance to explore the area, I highly recommend it. One of my personal favorite spots is Pie Tap Pizza.

From communications support, to financial aid, to free meals, to opening up their homes, the neighborhood quickly came together after the fire to support us victims. Through multiple Facebook groups and in-person meetings, The Cooper residents also united in being there for each other. The Red Cross was another huge help for me personally, as they took direct action to help immediately after the fire.

Living in the Near Southside challenged me in ways I never expected, but it also taught me resilience and adaptability. While my journey included loss and hardship, it also helped shape who I am today. 

I am hopeful for what the future holds and grateful for the lessons I’ve learned along the way. 

Matthew Eubanks is a barista at a coffee shop near downtown Fort Worth. He’s lived in Fort Worth for about five years.

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