Former Brookfield Volunteer Firefighter, Passenger Killed In Motorcycle Crash: Authorities

BROOKFIELD, CT — Bridgeport Police Officer Cooper Whiteside, and a passenger on his motorcycle, were killed Monday morning in a two-vehicle crash on Sugar Hollow Road in Danbury, according to authorities.

The crash occurred at about 2:45 a.m. Danbury resident Whiteside, 38, was operating a Harley-Davidson motorcycle while off-duty.

Also killed was Brittany Islami, 34, of New Milford. Both were found lying in the roadway and were pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the other vehicle, a Jeep Compass, was transported to Danbury Hospital for treatment of serious injuries, according to police.

"The preliminary investigation indicates that the motorcycle was traveling southbound on Sugar Hollow Road and the Jeep was traveling northbound on Sugar Hollow Road when the collision occurred," Danbury police wrote in a statement.

The crash, which occurred near the Ridgefield border, resulted in the closure of Sugar Hollow Road for several hours on Monday while police investigated. The road has since been reopened.

"With great sadness, the Bridgeport Police Department confirms the passing of Bridgeport Police Officer Cooper Whiteside, who was tragically killed in a motor vehicle accident early Monday morning in the City of Danbury," Bridgeport Police Chief Roderick Porter said in a statement. "Officer Whiteside served with honor and dignity, beginning in July 2024. He will be greatly missed. We send our condolences to his family, friends, and fellow officers."

In addition to the Bridgeport Police Department, Whiteside was also a former member of the Brookfield Volunteer Fire Department.

"Cooper proudly served as a member of our company for many years while working for the Town of Brookfield Highway Department," Brookfield officials said in a statement. "During his time with us, he was always willing to lend a hand and was a valued part of our fire service family.

"Cooper found his true calling when he joined the Bridgeport Police Department, where he dedicated himself to serving and protecting his community with the same commitment and professionalism that he displayed as a member of our company."

Additionally, Whiteside also served in the West Redding Fire Department, where he was known as "Coop."

With the West Redding department, Whiteside ascended the ranks from firefighter to EMT, Lieutenant to Training Captain, and finally becoming Vice President.

"We express our deepest condolences to the Whiteside family," West Redding officials said in a statement.

Added Brookfield officials, "Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Cooper’s family, friends, his brothers and sisters of the Bridgeport Police Department and the Members of the West Redding Volunteer Fire Department during this incredibly difficult time.

"Rest easy, Cooper. Your service, friendship, and dedication will not be forgotten."

The investigation into the crash is ongoing, "as the exact cause of the collision is still under review," according to Danbury police.

Anyone who may have witnessed the crash is asked to contact Sergeant Wakeman at 203-797-2157 or Officer Wolen at 203-797-4614 ext 661, or utilize the Danbury Police Department’s anonymous Tip411 system.