Echo Lake Corner Cop Car
When the police car by Echo Lake Cafe was vandalized beyond repair on June 4, 2026,our initial reaction was simple: we weren't going to replace it.We were disappointed, frustrated, and assumed it was time to move on.
Then the messages started coming in.
What surprised us most wasn't the vandalism itself... it was discovering how many people in our community had grown attached to the car.
The comments, phone calls, stories, and offers to help made it clear that the car had become more than we realized. Because of that overwhelming support, we've decided to replace it.
Many people have asked how they can contribute.
While we're committed to finding a replacement either way, many people want to be involved, which we think is just another way this new car can be even more appreciated throughout the community. We've created this page for those who would like to contribute, but please know there is absolutely no expectation or pressure to do so. For those who do wish to contribute, funds will go toward the purchase of a replacement vehicle. Any funds beyond that cost will go toward improved security and monitoring for the car location, and the insurance and upkeep of the car moving forward.
Whether you choose to donate, share the story, or simply continue supporting our little corner of the valley, we are incredibly grateful. Donate below and/or read the full story of how the cop car came to be.
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We appreciate your involvement and support.
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Why was there a police car near Echo Lake Cafe?
On December 1, 2024, at approximately 4:30 PM, a fatal drunk driving accident occurred directly in front of our restaurant. Wyatt Potts lost his life. His fiancée, Teressa, suffered critical injuries and will never fully recover. Their unborn child did not survive, and Teressa's young daughter, who was in the back seat, endured significant physical and emotional trauma. Like many in our community, we were deeply affected by what happened.
After returning home from the scene that evening, we found ourselves asking the same question: Could anything have prevented it?
We kept coming back to the thought that perhaps a visible police presence might have caused the impaired driver to slow down or reconsider the reckless decision to pass another vehicle in a double yellow zone at nearly twice the posted speed limit.
A week later, everything fell into place and we found the perfect retired police car in Butte. We parked it along the highway, in about the same spot where the accident took place. Whether it made a difference or not, we hoped it would encourage people to slow down and think twice while also serving as a tribute to Wyatt, Teressa, her daughter, and all of their friends and family.
