Texas park ranger pushed into water after approaching group for not social distancing

AUSTIN, Texas (KEYE) — A park ranger in Austin, Texas was pushed into the water after approaching a group of people not properly social distancing.

According to an affidavit, the ranger noticed a group of people unlawfully drinking and smoking in Common Fords Park.

Video of the incident posted on Reddit shows the ranger standing on a wooden dock telling the group to disperse for not properly social distancing.

He was then pushed from behind into the water by 25-year-old Brandon James Hicks, according to police.

The City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department released the following statement:

The Austin Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) is saddened by the action taken against our Park Ranger. City of Austin Parks Rangers are essential workers who've been on the front-line of the City's response to COVID-19. They continue to work long hours educating the public on the various operational changes at parks and other PARD facilities.

Rangers are not law enforcement officers. The Ranger program was created to provide educational services, safety, and security in Austin’s parks and recreational facilities. Through these actions, Rangers help protect and foster stewardship of the natural world.

"Our Rangers continue to engage residents on the proper use of park facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic," said Kimberly McNeeley, Austin Parks & Recreation Department Director. "We ask that the public treat Rangers with the same respect they wish to be shown to themselves. Public support is essential for Austin to meet the challenges of this pandemic."

Hicks is charged with attempted assault on a public servant, a state jail felony.