A Bridgeport Police Officer and his girlfriend were killed July 13 in Danbury, Connecticut, after a driver allegedly crashed into their motorcycle. The victims have been identified as Officer Cooper Whiteside, 38, and Brittany Anne Islami, 34.
Police said Melissa Ramirez, 27, was driving a Jeep around 2:45 a.m. on Sugar Hollow Road when she collided with Whiteside’s Harley-Davidson motorcycle. Both Whiteside and Islami were pronounced dead at the scene. Ramirez sustained serious injuries and had to be removed from her vehicle before being transported to the hospital.
Ramirez faces charges including two counts of second-degree manslaughter with a motor vehicle, operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol, speeding, and failing to maintain the proper lane. She is being held on a $500,000 bond.
A witness traveling ahead of the motorcycle told authorities they believed a northbound vehicle may have crossed the double yellow line, but did not see the exact moment of impact. The witness also stated the motorcycle was not traveling erratically.
Whiteside had served on the police force for two years. His obituary described him as an officer of distinction known for his integrity, humility, and compassion. He was also noted for his talents as a musician, an outdoor enthusiast, a certified rescue diver, a handyman, and a jokester.
Islami was a caretaker and personal assistant. Her loved ones remembered her as a proud mother, daughter, and sister. She leaves behind three children, aged 12, 10, and 7. Her obituary stated that Islami was known as 'the life of the party' and that her life revolved around her children, ensuring they attended sporting events, school functions, and town events. A GoFundMe has been established to support Islami's children with their immediate and future needs.