DANBURY, Conn. (WFSB) – A motorcycle crash claimed the lives of two individuals early Monday morning on Sugar Hollow Road.
At approximately 2:45 a.m., 38-year-old Cooper Whiteside of Danbury was riding a Harley Davidson when his motorcycle collided with a northbound Jeep Compass, according to Danbury police.
Whiteside and his passenger, 34-year-old Brittany Islami of New Milford, were pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Jeep sustained serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital.
Bridgeport Police Chief Porter confirmed Whiteside’s passing, stating, “With great sadness, the Bridgeport Police Department confirms the passing of Officer Cooper Whiteside.” Whiteside had joined the department in July 2024, fulfilling his dream of becoming a police officer.
In honor of Whiteside, the Bridgeport Police Department has dedicated a memorial patrol vehicle, Vehicle #311, stationed near the Police Officer’s Prayer at 300 Congress Street. The public is encouraged to leave meaningful items at the memorial.
Sugar Hollow Road was closed for several hours as the Danbury Police Accident Investigation Team conducted a preliminary investigation. The exact cause of the crash is still under investigation.
Anyone with information related to the incident is urged to contact Sgt. Wakeman at 203-797-2157 or Officer Wolen at 203-797-4614, ext. 661. Anonymous tips can be submitted via the Danbury Police Department’s Tip411 system.
More details will be provided as they become available.