A Ferguson, Missouri, police officer is fighting for his life after a violent assault during a protest marking the 10th anniversary of Michael Brown's death. Officer Travis Brown, a recent addition to the Ferguson Police Department, suffered a severe brain injury when a suspect ran into him, causing him to fall.

The shocking attack, captured on video, has led to multiple charges against the suspect and reignited discussions about Ferguson Police Department reforms since 2014, Fox News reported.

The protest, which started peacefully, escalated when protesters breached a fence outside the police department. This led to a chaotic scene where Officer Brown was knocked unconscious after hitting his head on the pavement. The suspect, Elijah Gantt, was arrested and faces multiple charges, including a new assault charge for allegedly kicking another officer in the head.

Suspect Faces Multiple Charges Following Violent Protest

Gantt is currently held on a $500,000 cash-only bond. His actions during the protest have had severe repercussions for both himself and the community. Officer Brown, who joined the Ferguson Police Department earlier this year, is now in critical condition, causing deep concern among his family and colleagues.

Additionally, Keith Rose, an alternate delegate to the upcoming Democratic National Convention (DNC) and a member of the St. Louis Civilian Oversight Board, has emerged from this incident. Rose was arrested for first-degree property damage after allegedly kicking part of the metal gate during the protest. He has been released on a $500 bond and has withdrawn as a DNC delegate.

Community and Police Respond to the Tragic Incident

The violence during the protest has elicited strong reactions from both law enforcement and the local community. Ferguson Police Chief Troy Doyle expressed frustration, underscoring the significant reforms since 2014, including a majority of Black officers. He noted that Officer Brown embodied the positive change the community seeks.

"This officer wanted to be part of the change," Chief Doyle said of Brown. "He’s the type of officer that we want in our community. And what happens? He gets assaulted." Doyle also criticized the attack, saying, "If you look at the video, the officer is standing up, waiting to catch this guy. This guy tackled my guy like he’s a football player."

Brown's family thanked first responders and the public for their support, describing him as a devoted family man and person of strong faith. They are "holding onto hope and trusting in the power of faith" for his recovery.

Ferguson Police Department's Reforms Highlighted Amid Crisis

The incident has renewed attention on the Ferguson Police Department's reforms over the past decade. Since the 2014 protests following Michael Brown's death, the department has worked to rebuild community trust, including increasing the number of Black officers to create a more representative force.

However, the attack on Officer Brown highlights ongoing challenges. As the community deals with the violence's aftermath, Chief Doyle and others have called for acknowledgment of the progress made. "Let’s recognize the good that has taken place in our police department. Let’s recognize the reform," Doyle urged.

Additional Officers Injured During Escalating Protest

The protest left Officer Brown critically injured and two other officers with injuries—one to the ankle and another with an abrasion. The peaceful demonstration turned chaotic after a breach of the police department's fence.

The incident has sparked widespread condemnation and raised questions about the effectiveness of ongoing reforms within the Ferguson Police Department. Despite progress, the attack on Officer Brown highlights the persistent tensions in the community.

Conclusion: A Community and Department at a Crossroads

The brutal attack on Officer Travis Brown during the protest marking the 10th anniversary of Michael Brown's death has shocked Ferguson, Missouri. As Brown remains in critical condition, the community and law enforcement face renewed scrutiny of the city's deep-seated issues.

With the suspect facing multiple charges and a DNC delegate stepping down, the incident has reignited discussions about the Ferguson Police Department's progress and challenges. The community, while recognizing past reforms, must now reflect on the future of justice, reform, and healing.