Vigil held for Ferguson police officer in critical condition after being knocked to the ground during protest

FERGUSON, Mo. (First Alert 4) - Community , first responders and clergy gathered outside the Ferguson Police Department Tuesday night for a vigil in honor of Officer Travis Brown, who remains in critical condition.

Following protests Friday night outside the Ferguson Police Department, police said protestor Elijah Gantt crashed into the 37-year-old officer, knocking him to the ground and causing a critical head injury. Police released body camera and surveillance video on Tuesday of the events leading up to the injury.

Brown is a father of two and started at the department in January. He previously worked at the St. Louis County Police Department since 2012.

“[Always] a big smile on his face, very nice, engaging with the community. Obviously, here for more than just a job,” said Maureen Pegg, just one of several Ferguson residents who showed up to the officer and gather in prayer Tuesday.

The Brown family released the following statement:

“Our family deeply values the sacrifices and commitment made by first responders around the world. We are proud to be part of a community of veterans who have dedicated their lives to this noble profession. Over the years, we have ed many heroes, both locally and abroad, who have suffered in the line of duty.

On the early morning hours of Saturday, August 10, 2024, our beloved, Officer Travis Brown, suffered a serious physical injury while performing his tour of duty. He is currently in critical condition, surrounded by his loved ones, as he bravely fights for his life. We are holding onto hope and trusting in the power of faith to see him through this difficult time.

Travis is more than a police officer; he is a devoted father, son, brother, uncle, godfather, and friend. A man of strong faith, his heart is as big as his smile, and his positive energy is truly contagious. TJ is also an athlete, an adventurer, a lover of movies, and so much more. We know he is determined to continue living life to the fullest once he has recovered.

At this time, we kindly ask for your continued prayers as we focus on Travis’s healing and recovery. For those who wish to offer tangible , we ask that donations be directed to the Ferguson Police Department, which will ensure they reach our family. Additionally, financial contributions can be made to the official GoFundMe set up under “ for Officer Travis Brown.”

From the depths of our hearts, we extended our sincerest thanks for the overwhelming outpouring of we have received. The generosity of countless individuals has touched us profoundly, and we are deeply grateful. While it is impossible to personally thank everyone who has contributed, we want to acknowledge the entire first responder community - police officers, firefighters, paramedics, doctors and nurses- who have played a vital role in assisting Travis. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to Chief Troy Doyle and the Ferguson Police Department, the St. Louis County Police Department, the St. Louis Police Wives Association, BackStoppers, the Need of Aid Foundation, and many others within the community for their unwavering .

We stand for peace across the United States of America and beyond. In these challenging times, we pray for unity and for God’s mercy to rest upon us all.”

BackStoppers has announced that they are assisting Officer Brown. The organization provides financial assistance, insurance coverage and more to the families of catastrophically injured and fallen first responders.

“Officer Brown is a man dedicated to assisting others,” said Chief Ron Battelle, executive director of The BackStoppers. “We will now step in and assist his family as needed.”

Click here for the GoFundMe that has been set up for Officer Brown’s family.

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