Bridgeport Honors Officer Killed In Crash With Memorial Patrol Vehicle

BRIDGEPORT, CT — The Bridgeport Police Department will have a memorial patrol vehicle in honor of Officer Cooper Whiteside, who was killed Monday in a motorcycle crash in Danbury.

"Officer Whiteside’s patrol vehicle, #311, is stationed inside the memorial near the Police Officer’s Prayer at 300 Congress Street," authorities wrote in a statement. The memorial patrol vehicle is a first for the city.

The early morning crash also took the life Brittany Islami, the passenger on the motorcycle that Whiteside was operating. The driver of the other vehicle in the two-vehicle crash was seriously injured.

"If there is anything that reminds you of [Officer Whiteside], we encourage you to place it on or around his vehicle," authorities said. "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. All items will be collected on Sunday."

Additionally, drew attention to the GoFundMe link to benefit the children of Islami, who was Whiteside’s girlfriend. See the link below.

"As we honor Cooper, let’s also remember Brittany and the three children who now face this unimaginable loss," authorities wrote. "If you are able, please consider making a donation and sharing the fundraiser."

GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/322b5e0e1

"Thank you all for helping to honor Officer Whiteside and for continuing to support those he loved most."