Public encouraged to add to memorial for Bridgeport police officer killed in off-duty motorcycle crash

The video above aired on July 13, 2026. BRIDGEPORT, Conn. (WTNH) — The public is encouraged to add meaningful items to a memorial created for Bridgeport Officer Cooper Whiteside, who died over the weekend in a motorcycle crash. Police said Whiteside's patrol vehicle, #311, is now stationed inside the memorial, near the Police Officer's Prayer at 300 Congress St. "If there is anything that reminds you of him, we encourage you to place it on or around his vehicle. Whether it’s a patch, challenge coin, photo, handwritten note, decal, or another meaningful item, let’s fill his car with the love and memories he left with all of us," police said on Wednesday. Whiteside was off duty when the motorcycle he was driving collided with a Jeep early Monday morning on Sugar Hollow Road in Danbury. He and his passenger, 34-year-old Brittany Islami of New Milford, were found dead at the scene. The driver of the Jeep suffered serious injuries. Police said a GoFundMe has been created for the family of Islami, whom they said was Cooper’s girlfriend. "As we honor Cooper, let’s also remember Brittany and the three children who now face this unimaginable loss. If you are able, please consider making a donation and sharing the fundraiser," police said. As of midday Wednesday, the GoFundMe has raised more than $23,000 with a goal of $75,000. Bridgeport Chief of Police Roderick Porter said Cooper had been an officer at the Bridgeport Police Department for the past two years. He was also previously a member of the West Redding Volunteer Fire Department and Brookfield Volunteer Fire Department. Police said all items added to the memorial will be collected on Sunday.