07/14/2026
The Thomaston Police Department extends our deepest condolences to the members of the Bridgeport Police Department, as well as the family, friends, and loved ones of Officer Cooper Whiteside and Brittany Islami, who tragically lost their lives following a motor vehicle collision.
Officer Whiteside served his community with honor and dedication. We are grateful for his service and sacrifice
May Officer Cooper Whiteside and Brittany rest in eternal peace. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected during this incredibly difficult time.
There are no words that can truly capture the sorrow of a loss like this. Our department is heartbroken by the devastating loss of Officer Cooper Whiteside and Brittany Islami.
Cooper proudly served the City of Bridgeport with honor, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to protecting others. Before joining the Bridgeport Police Department, he dedicated himself to public service with the West Redding Volunteer Fire Department, where he served as Captain, and the Brookfield Volunteer Fire Company. His dream was to become a police officer, which he turned into a reality 2 years ago when he joined our department. Whether wearing a police uniform or firefighter turnout gear, Cooper lived a life that was devoted to public service. Helping others wasn’t just what he did, it was who he was.
Hanging above the door in Cooper’s home was a sign that read:
“The name on your patch says who hired you. The name on your nameplate says who raised you. Every time you walk out this door, represent both with honor and integrity.”
Those weren’t just words on a sign, they were words Cooper lived by. Every time he walked out that door, he carried with him the values instilled by his family and the oath he took to serve this community. He represented both with honor, integrity, humility, compassion, and selfless dedication. Those who knew Cooper know those words couldn’t have described him more perfectly.
We mourn not only the loss of an exceptional police officer, but also a respected firefighter, a trusted colleague, a loyal friend, an amazing son, and a man whose kindness and commitment touched so many lives. His impact on this department and on our community will never be forgotten.
We extend our deepest condolences to the Whiteside and Islami families, our brothers and sisters at the West Redding Volunteer Fire Department and the Brookfield Volunteer Fire Company, and to everyone mourning this unimaginable loss. Please continue to keep all who knew and loved Cooper and Brittany in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.
All the love and support that has been coming in from other departments and the community is overwhelming. Please continue to support our department as we navigate through our grief in the coming days, weeks, and months.
Thank you for your service, your sacrifice, and the legacy you leave behind. You will never be forgotten and we will continue to serve the community with the same passion as you, honoring your memory everyday.
Rest easy, Officer Whiteside. Your watch is over. We’ll take it from here, brother. 💙 #322
