BRADENTON, Fla. – The Bradenton Police Department is grappling with the profound loss of one of its own. Officer Zachary Butterfield, a 40-year-old husband, father, U.S. Coast Guard veteran, and valued member of the department’s SWAT team, died by suicide on Thursday afternoon. His family and colleagues are now sharing his story, hoping to illuminate the often-hidden mental health struggles faced by first responders and to inspire meaningful change within the law enforcement community.
Butterfield, who joined the Bradenton Police Department in July 2022, was known for his infectious smile and warm personality. A dedicated officer, he brought energy and camaraderie to his work. “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.” Butterfield’s commitment was evident in his service, both as a patrol officer and as a member of the SWAT team, and he was recently honored with the department’s Life Saving Award for his heroic actions during a call.
Despite his outward positivity, Butterfield was privately battling significant challenges. The unseen toll of the job, compounded by personal struggles, weighed heavily on him. In a courageous step, he sought help through the department’s peer counseling group, which connected him with a first responder retreat. There, he could speak with trained professionals and peers who understood the unique pressures of law enforcement. “He was brave enough to speak up,” Chief 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 highlights a sobering reality: suicide is the leading cause of death among law enforcement officers, outpacing line-of-duty deaths. The stigma surrounding mental health in policing has long contributed to a culture of silence, leaving many to suffer alone. Locally, the Suncoast Police Benevolent Association, led by President Jonathan Vasquez, is working to dismantle this barrier. In collaboration with St. Petersburg College, the association has developed a peer support training course to equip officers to support one another. “It’s much easier to open up to someone who’s walked in your shoes,” Vasquez said. “Saving one life is everything. We want every officer to know—suicide is never the only option.” The association’s challenge coin bears a powerful message: “First to Respond, Last to Ask for Help,” a mindset they are determined to transform.
As the Bradenton Police Department mourns, they are committed to honoring Officer Butterfield’s legacy by strengthening mental health resources and fostering a culture of openness. The department’s Peer Support Team is actively ensuring that all members have access to emotional support and professional counseling. “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 dedicated service and military career but also for his bravery in seeking help. His story serves as a call to action, encouraging others in the law enforcement community to reach out and reminding them that help is always available.
For first responders or anyone in crisis, support is available 24/7 through the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 800-273-TALK. Additional resources include the First Responder Hope Line at 211 or 866-4FL-HERO, Operation Restore at the Franciscan Center in Tampa, and HCA Florida Largo West Hospital’s First Responder Protocol at 727-460-3193.
