BRADENTON, Fla. – The Bradenton Police Department is mourning the devastating loss of one of its own. Officer Zachary Butterfield, a husband, father, U.S. Coast Guard veteran, and respected member of the department’s SWAT team, died by suicide on Thursday. Now, his family and fellow officers are sharing his story in the hope that it will shed light on the hidden mental health struggles many first responders face—and spark meaningful change.
Butterfield, known for his big smile and even bigger heart, had served with the Bradenton Police Department for three years. He was widely admired by colleagues for his dedication and upbeat personality.
“He was a bit of a jokester… a funny guy that always lightened the room,” said Bradenton Police Chief Josh Cramer. “He loved every day. He got up at 4:30 in the morning, drove two counties over to be here. He loved this job and the people he worked with.”
Despite his warm and energetic demeanor, Butterfield was silently battling personal struggles. Just months before his death, he was honored with a Lifesaving Award for his actions during a call. But the inner toll of the job had become overwhelming.
In a powerful and courageous move, Butterfield did something many in law enforcement struggle to do—he asked for help. He reached out to the department’s peer counseling group, which connected him with a first responder retreat where he could talk to trained professionals and others facing similar challenges.
“He was brave enough to speak up,” Cramer said. “That’s something we want to highlight. Because there are other officers hurting too—and they need to know they’re not alone.”
Butterfield’s death underscores a painful and pressing reality: suicide remains the leading cause of death among law enforcement officers, surpassing deaths in the line of duty. Across the nation, the silence surrounding mental health in policing has taken a heavy toll.
Locally, the Suncoast Police Benevolent Association is working to break that silence. In partnership with St. Petersburg College, the association has launched a peer support training course aimed at equipping officers to support one another. The initiative is a response to the need for connection, understanding, and early intervention among those on the front lines.
“It’s much easier to open up to someone who’s walked in your shoes,” said Jonathan Vasquez, president of the association. “Saving one life is everything. We want every officer to know—suicide is never the only option.”
The association’s challenge coin carries a poignant reminder: “First to Respond, Last to Ask for Help.” It’s a mindset they are determined to change.
As the Bradenton Police Department grieves, they are also moving forward with a mission—to honor Officer Butterfield’s legacy by ensuring that no officer feels they have to suffer in silence.
“There was love in his heart for what he did and the people he worked with,” Chief Cramer said. “That’s what I’m going to try to carry with me every day.”
Officer Zachary Butterfield will be remembered not only for his service but for his bravery in speaking up—and for the hope that his story will encourage others to do the same.
If you or someone you know is a first responder in crisis, support is available:
First Responder Hope Line
Call 211 or (866) 4FL-HERO
Visit: crisiscenter.com/aboutus/services-programs/first-responder-hope-line
You are not alone. Help is here.
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