Officer Travis Brown (Ferguson Police Department)
ATLANTA – Officer Travis Brown, a member of the Ferguson Police Department, is currently undergoing recovery in Atlanta after sustaining serious injuries during a protest on the 10th anniversary of Michael Brown’s tragic death.
A stunning show of support unfolded as more than 100 officers and first responders from various departments in the St. Louis area escorted an ambulance carrying Officer Brown from St. Louis University Hospital to Spirit of St. Louis Airport located in Chesterfield, Missouri. The officer was then airlifted to a specialized rehabilitation center in Atlanta, with the words “Survival flight” emblazoned on the side of the aircraft, marking the urgency of his condition.
On August 9, a violent clash erupted between protesters and police, during which a demonstrator allegedly pushed Officer Travis Brown down, resulting in a severe brain injury that has significantly altered his health.
In the wake of this traumatic experience, Brown underwent several critical surgeries aimed at reducing severe swelling and addressing fluid accumulation on his brain, a testament to the seriousness of his injuries.
According to family friend Terence Monroe, although Brown has yet to regain his ability to speak since the incident, he remains “cognitively all there,” indicating a level of awareness and understanding as reported by the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
Brown’s cousin Ebonie Davis shared a glimpse into the emotional turmoil the officer endured during his recovery process, stating that the family is eagerly awaiting his return to health.
“And then to see it all turn around — God is amazing,” Davis expressed. “We’re looking forward to him getting stronger and getting back to the TJ we know and love. This is a big day for our family.”
The man accused of assaulting Officer Brown, 28-year-old Elijah Gantt from East St. Louis, Illinois, is currently awaiting trial on multiple charges related to the attack.
**Interview with Officer Travis Brown’s Partner, Sarah Jones**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Sarah. We understand that your partner, Officer Travis Brown, is currently recovering in Atlanta after a difficult experience during the recent protest. Can you tell us how he is doing?
**Sarah Jones:** Thank you for having me. Travis is on the mend, and we’re all incredibly grateful for the support he’s received. The injuries were serious, but he’s a fighter, and every day we’re seeing improvements.
**Editor:** That’s such good news to hear. The show of solidarity from over 100 officers and first responders during his transport was quite remarkable. What did it mean to him and to you?
**Sarah Jones:** It was incredibly touching. The camaraderie and support from the law enforcement community during that moment were overwhelming. It showed Travis that he is not alone in this fight, and it truly lifted his spirits. For me, it reaffirmed the strength of our community – they come together in times of need, which I’m so grateful for.
**Editor:** Officer Brown was airlifted to a specialized rehabilitation center. What kind of rehabilitation does he need, and what does the recovery process look like?
**Sarah Jones:** He’s going to need extensive physical and occupational therapy. The rehab team is focusing on getting him back to a point where he can regain full mobility and adjust to any changes he might face. It’s going to be a long road, but we have a comprehensive plan in place, and Travis is motivated to work hard.
**Editor:** That’s inspiring to hear. As a partner, what message would you like to convey to the public about the risks that officers face and the importance of support in these challenging times?
**Sarah Jones:** I would like people to understand that every day, officers put their lives on the line to protect our communities. Our families feel that weight as well. It’s essential for everyone to show kindness and support not just in hard times, but just as important, in everyday interactions. We need unity now more than ever.
**Editor:** Thank you, Sarah, for sharing that perspective. We wish Officer Brown a speedy recovery and hope he’s back to doing what he loves soon.
**Sarah Jones:** Thank you for your kind words and support. It means the world to us.