Following a gunfight with federal agents, an executive at Clinton National Airport passes away

Little Rock, Arkansas – During an early Tuesday morning search on his Chenal Valley residence, agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives shot and killed the Executive Director of Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport.

It is reported that just after 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday, agents serving a search warrant at 4 Durance Court fired gunfire at Bryan Malinowski, 53.

About the warrant that permitted them to enter the house, no information has been made public.

During the gunfight, an ATF agent was also hurt; he was taken to the hospital but is expected to recover fully.

Bryan Malinowski’s brother Matthew claims the agents shot him in the head with a high-caliber weapon after breaking down his brother’s door. The family is baffled as to why.

“The ATF burst into his house, and they did it in a manner that was the most dangerous combination possible. Why?” said Matthew Malinowski. “The easiest way to have taken care of this situation – the most common way – would be to wait until he gets in his car, pull over and arrest him. Or you wait until he comes to work and you arrest him there.”

In 2008, Malinowski became a member of Clinton National as the Director of Development, Planning, and Properties.

After being named Executive Director in November 2019, he was in charge of the state’s biggest airport’s general management, operations, upkeep, and development.

His confrontation with law enforcement, which was violent and unexplained, stunned airport personnel.

Bill Walker, the chairman of the Airport Commission, issued a statement expressing his sadness at the incident and his prayers for all those affected hours later.

The airport’s deputy executive director, Tom Clarke, was appointed interim executive director.
With Malinowski’s passing, it’s uncertain if he will take over the role permanently.

The event has been reported to the Criminal Investigation Division of the Arkansas State Police.
The prosecuting attorney will review the file when ASP completes its investigation and decide whether or not the use of deadly force was permitted by Arkansas state law.
Following Malinowski’s passing, the head of the Little Rock Municipal Airport Commission said the following:

“With a heavy heart, we announce the passing of our executive director Bryan Malinowski. Bryan was a 16-year employee of the airport. Under his leadership, our airport has experienced significant growth and success, expanding services and offerings to our community and state. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Bryan’s wife, Maer, loved ones, and friends.”