Zachary Dale Cottongim

Police Officer Zachary Cottongim was struck and killed by an automobile as he attended to an abandoned vehicle on the side of I-64 near the Mellwood Avenue exit on December 18, 2021. He was standing on the side of the highway when he was struck by a passing vehicle. He then was taken to the University of Louisville Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

Officer Cottongim was only 29 years old, and had served with the Louisville Metro Police Department for seven years. 

Officer Cottongim was said to be a bright, talented young man by many of his colleagues and was dedicated to his community. Many officers were close friends of Officer Cottongim as he worked in many different details, and trained many other officers. He was known as a humble person, who never bragged about his accomplishments and supported everyone. A bright, talented young man who has left us way too soon. The pain of his loss is immeasurable.

Police Officer Zachary Dale Cottongim is survived by his wife, Jamie and two daughters.

“I have also included a photo of my husband in uniform. He wore it proudly and absolutely loved his career, and helping those in his community. I have been overwhelmed with emotion for your foundation, and have been touched at the “beauty” in all of the darkness. I have had a hard time accepting help, and that doesn’t change for what you all have decided to take on for our family. I know that my husband would want to ensure that our little family can stay behind in his legacy, and our home is filled with all of the memories. Your foundation is making that dream come alive for his boys and I. He would be eternally grateful, as am I. I am so proud to be part of the blue family that serves others, and has so much support (especially the unknown) that makes all of it worth it. I am truly not sure how to thank you. I just feel that I am blessed”.

– Jamie Cottongim, Wife