Stamford Woman Charged in Fatal Danbury Crash
A Stamford woman faces multiple charges, including manslaughter and DUI, following a fatal crash in Danbury on July 13 that killed two individuals.
Authorities identified the deceased as 38-year-old Cooper Whiteside, an off-duty Bridgeport police officer, and his motorcycle passenger, 34-year-old Brittany Islami. The Danbury Police Department arrested 27-year-old Melissa Ramirez on July 14, with assistance from Stamford and Bridgeport police. She is charged with two counts of second-degree manslaughter with a motor vehicle, DUI, reckless driving, and failure to maintain a proper lane. Ramirez is being held on a $500,000 bond.
The crash occurred shortly after 2:45 a.m. on Sugar Hollow Road, involving a Jeep Compass and a Harley Davidson motorcycle. Responding officers reported significant damage to both vehicles. The two motorcycle riders were pronounced dead at the scene, while Ramirez was transported to Danbury Hospital with serious injuries.
A GoFundMe has been established to support Islami’s three children. A Memorial service for Whiteside was held on the same day as Ramirez’s arrest, attracting hundreds of first responders.
The crash remains under investigation.