Knoxville police officer B.K. Hardin continues to recover after being hit in the back of the head with a hammer by an unknown assailant while directing traffic at a football game.
As the investigation continues, the Knoxville community has been working together to figure out how to help him.
Yassin's Falafel House, dubbed recently as the 'Nicest Place in America,' lived up to its title Thursday by organizing a community fundraiser to help other officers.
Yassin's family reached out to Hardin while he was recovering from surgery asking how they could help. They came with an idea -- give the community a chance to meet officer Hardin and other officers with the Knoxville Police Department to raise money for the Knoxville Public Safety Foundation.
The meet-and-greet brought in tons of people within a few hours, and Yassin said they earned about $2,000 in sales.
Initially, Yassin's donated $500 to kick off the fundraiser. Once all was said and done, another $1,500 from the sales was donated. All in all, Yassin said they raised $2,100 for the Public Safety Foundation.
"This was a way to give a little back to the foundation -- to make sure the next officer down the line that needs it -- it's there for them," Officer Hardin said.
The officers were also treated to a free lunch.
The search for Hardin's attacker continues.
The Fraternal Order of Police has offered a $5,400 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person responsible. The TBI has offered $2,500. An anonymous community member from Oak Ridge pledged an additional $5,000. The total reward is now up to $23,400.
The Knoxville Police Department has interviewed several witnesses but would still like to speak to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or saw anyone running, acting nervous or looking suspicious near the intersection of 17th Street and Clinch Avenue between 7:15 p.m. and 7:40 p.m on Saturday, Nov. 18.
You can call 865-215-7212, and you can remain anonymous if you wish.
The suspect has been described as a white male in 20s. He is believed to be 5'10" and wearing a black hoodie and gray sweatpants, according to KPD.