Protests have stretched into a fourth night across Austin, with much of it focused on downtown and Austin Police Headquarters. On Monday, Chief of Police Brian Manley revealed that at least three of the weekend protesters suffered injuries by police, including two that required trips to the hospital.
An emotional Manley detailed the incidents during a Monday night livestream. A 20-year-old man was reportedly left with critical injuries after suffering round from a police-issued beanbag shotgun. Police were aiming at protesters who were next to the man and throwing water and backpacks at police, Manley said. A teenager was also hit in the head with a beanbag round..
“They were two very young people who we believe are from our community,” Manley said. “One is fighting for their life, and the other has been seriously injured as well.”
Separately, a pregnant woman was also reportedly hit with a beanbag round.
“Struck with an impact munition to her belly,” Manley said. “She was brought into Police Headquarters and was rendered aid, and then was assisted by both medics and APD personnel.”
Manley directly addressed the families of those protesters.
“My heart is with you. I am praying for your child. I hope that they have a complete and quick recovery, and I will make myself open to speak with you and answer questions.”
