Bryan Malinowski : Arkansas Airport Director Shot Dies: Illegal Firearm Sales Alleged

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. Arkansas airport director shooting
2. Alleged illegal firearm sales affidavit

The executive director of Little Rock’s airport, Bryan Malinowski, tragically passed away after being injured in a shootout with federal agents serving a search warrant at his home. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives reported that Malinowski, who was 53, was involved in illegal gun sales. Despite the allegations, Malinowski’s family expressed disbelief at the use of deadly force. Malinowski had a successful career at the airport, overseeing significant growth and success. The airport offered condolences to his family, highlighting his 16-year contribution to the organization. The incident is under investigation, with no immediate response from the ATF.

The Tragic Shooting at Little Rock Airport

The city of Little Rock, Arkansas was left reeling this week after a tragic incident took place at the home of Bryan Malinowski, the executive director of the Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport. Malinowski, who was 53 years old, was involved in a shootout with federal agents who were serving a search warrant at his residence in west Little Rock. The situation quickly escalated, resulting in Malinowski’s untimely death.

The Events Unfold

According to reports from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), agents were attempting to serve the warrant at Malinowski’s home when shots were fired at them from inside the residence. In the exchange of gunfire that followed, both Malinowski and an ATF agent were injured. Tragically, Malinowski succumbed to his injuries on Thursday, while the agent’s wounds were reported as non-life-threatening.

Allegations of Illegal Gun Sales

A heavily redacted warrant affidavit revealed that Malinowski had been under investigation for his involvement in the illegal sale of firearms. The ATF stated that Malinowski had purchased over 150 guns between May 2021 and February 2024, which he then resold without the necessary dealer’s license. Some of these guns were later linked to criminal activities, raising serious concerns about Malinowski’s activities.

A Family’s Grief

In the wake of this tragedy, Malinowski’s family released a statement expressing their profound shock and sorrow at the events that unfolded. They extended their condolences to the injured ATF agent and his family, while also raising questions about the use of deadly force in this situation. The family emphasized that Malinowski was a gun enthusiast who had only been accused of making private firearm sales without proper authorization.

A Legacy of Leadership

Malinowski had been a part of the management team at Clinton National Airport for 16 years, serving in various roles before eventually becoming the executive director in 2019. Under his leadership, the airport experienced significant growth and success, expanding its services and offerings to the community and the state of Arkansas. His colleagues and the airport commission paid tribute to his contributions and expressed their condolences to his family.

Looking Ahead

As the community mourns the loss of Bryan Malinowski, questions remain about the circumstances that led to his tragic death. The investigation into his alleged illegal activities continues, and further details are expected to emerge in the coming days. In the meantime, his family, friends, and colleagues are left to grapple with the shock and sadness of this devastating turn of events.