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A Fort Worth father is advocating for increased mental health resources for teenagers after his son tragically died by suicide last week.
Sixteen-year-old Anthony Cooper was the second student from Timber Creek High School to take their own life within three days. Another 18-year-old student died from a fatal gunshot wound on April 21.
Scottie Cooper, Anthony’s father, expressed his deep bond with his son, describing him as his best friend. Anthony, who played football at Timber Creek High School, cherished spending time with his family, and they had been planning their next vacation together just a week prior.
However, tragedy struck when Anthony unexpectedly took his grandmother’s car the following day. Scottie received a heart-wrenching text from his son around 4:30 p.m., expressing love and reassurance, shortly before Anthony fatally shot himself on Tuesday evening.
Scottie revealed that Anthony had previously shared feelings of depression, but showed no evident signs of struggle leading up to his death.
The recent deaths prompted the Keller Independent School District (ISD) school board to observe a moment of silence during their Thursday meeting, with some parents urging for more comprehensive measures to address student mental health.
Scottie recounted how his son had experienced bullying at Timber Creek a year before his passing, and despite seeking help, they felt the issue was not adequately addressed.
In response to concerns raised, Keller ISD stated that they had increased counseling personnel at Timber Creek High School and emphasized their commitment to providing resources for counseling and mental health support.
As Scottie mourns the loss of his son, he hopes that sharing Anthony’s story will bring awareness and prevent other teenagers from feeling like suicide is their only option.
The Cooper family plans to hold funeral services for Anthony in Fort Worth the following Saturday.