ATLANTA — An Atlanta Police officer was seriously injured after being hit by an ATV in downtown Atlanta during a second night of protests.
Police said Sunday that the officer had surgery early this morning and is currently recovering in the intensive care unit at Grady Memorial Hospital. Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms identified him Sunday night as officer Maximilian Brewer, who has been with the department for 18 years.
“We ask that you keep him in your thoughts and prayers,” Bottoms said. “He has a long road to recovery.”
Brewer was on foot when he was hit on Ted Turner Drive around 10 p.m. He sustained significant injuries to his legs.
Police said the ATV’s driver suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was taken into custody.
Bottoms said Sunday night that they do believe the rider struck Brewer intentionally.
The rider has been identified as Avery Goggans, 42. He’s been charged with DUI, serious injury by vehicle, reckless driving, possession of marijuana and several other traffic charges.
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The accident happened about an hour after a curfew went into effect in City of Atlanta as police attempted to subdue lingering protesters. Dozens of officers went running to help as the accident happened.
Police said the officer was tying to keep protesters from being hit by cars.
“While there, an ATV drove past at a high rate of speed,” police said. “A short time later, the ATV approached the intersection again at a high rate of speed and struck the officer. The officer was on foot, near his motorcycle at the time of the collision.”
Several people who remained on the streets after 9 p.m. were taken into custody.
A GoFundMe account has been set up to help Brewer with any expenses.
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