WHITNEY POINT, N.Y. — The Binghamton law enforcement community and residents throughout Broome County are mourning the death of Binghamton Police Officer Bradley Coon, whose passing has left family, friends, fellow officers, and the community grieving. Officer Coon died on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, following what family members and colleagues have described as a mental health crisis.
A native of Whitney Point, Bradley dedicated his career to public service after graduating from the Binghamton Police Department’s 2025 academy class. As a patrol officer, he earned the respect of fellow officers and community members through his professionalism, commitment to protecting others, and willingness to serve.
Above all else, Bradley was known as a devoted father to his 12-year-old son, Hugo Kupillas. Friends and colleagues have shared that his greatest source of pride was being a parent, and they remember him as someone who worked tirelessly to provide love, guidance, and stability for his son.
Following his passing, the Binghamton Police Benevolent Association (PBA) established a fundraising campaign to assist Hugo and help provide for his future. The effort has received widespread support from fellow officers, local residents, and neighboring law enforcement agencies, reflecting the strong sense of unity within the community during this difficult time.
Tributes have poured in from first responders across the Southern Tier. The Binghamton Fire Department, Endicott Police Department, and other public safety organizations have expressed their condolences to Bradley’s family and the members of the Binghamton Police Department, recognizing both his service and the sacrifices made by those who work in emergency response.
Bradley’s death has also prompted renewed conversations about the importance of mental health support for first responders. Police officers, firefighters, emergency medical personnel, and dispatchers often encounter traumatic situations throughout their careers, and many community leaders have emphasized the need to reduce stigma surrounding mental health and encourage those who are struggling to seek support.
Before beginning his law enforcement career, Bradley attended Whitney Point Senior High School and later studied at SUNY Broome Community College, where he laid the foundation for a life dedicated to serving others.
Funeral arrangements and memorial service details are expected to be announced by Bradley’s family and the Binghamton Police Department as they become available.
Officer Bradley Coon will be remembered for his dedication to public service, his compassion, and, most importantly, his unwavering love for his son. His memory will continue to live on in the lives of those who knew him and in the community he proudly served.
If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional distress or thoughts of suicide, confidential help is available by calling or texting 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, at any time.
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