WASHINGTON.— Several people were detained during new protests in the U.S. suburb of Ferguson, Missouri, a month and a half after the shooting of a young black man by a white police officer, who continues to walk free.

Protesters were participating in a rally in the suburb of St. Louis County, following the first apology from the Chief of Police of Ferguson, Thomas Jackson.

"I am truly sorry for the loss of your son," Jackson said as he addressed the boy's parents, according to press reports.

Benjamin Crump, the Brown family attorney, declined to comment.

Residents of the municipality have asked for the police chief to be sacked over the way he handled the protests that took place over more than two weeks following the murder.

The heavily militarized police force captured national attention when they attacked the protesters with anti-riot gear.

Both Jackson and other officials were sued by a group of protesters who alleged violations of their civil rights after being assaulted and submitted to arbitrary arrest by officers using rubber bullets and tear gas.

Michael Brown was shot in broad daylight on August 9 by Darren Wilson, who until now was only been suspended from duties.