A peaceful protest marking the anniversary of Michael Brown’s death obviously descended into violence, leaving Officer Travis Brown with a critical brain injury. The incident occurred late Friday evening outside the Ferguson Police Department, where demonstrators gathered to mark the somber occasion.
According to police reports, the situation escalated when some protesters began shaking the fence surrounding the police station. The confrontation quickly turned physical, resulting in injuries to three officers. Officer Brown was knocked to the ground by 28-year-old Elijah Gantt, who has since been charged with first-degree assault, fourth-degree assault, resisting arrest, and first-degree property damage.
Ferguson Police Chief Troy Doyle, visibly emotional during a Saturday press conference, expressed his deep sorrow and frustration. “I had to look his mother in the eye and tell her what happened to her son. I’m never gonna do that again,” Doyle said, emphasizing the devastating impact of the incident on both the department and the community.
Chief Doyle described Officer Brown as a dedicated public servant who was committed to making a positive difference in Ferguson. “He wanted to make an impact in our community,” Doyle said. “And what happens? He gets assaulted.”
St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell, who also spoke at the press conference, urged the community to remain calm and avoid further violence. “We need to bring the temperature down,” Bell said, highlighting the need for peace and dialogue as tensions continue to simmer in Ferguson.
The incident has once again brought national attention to Ferguson, a community still grappling with the legacy of Michael Brown’s death in 2014. As Officer Brown remains in critical condition, the investigation into the violent events of Friday night is ongoing.
