The executive director of the Bill and Hillary Clinton Airport in Little Rock, Arkansas, Bryan Malinowski, was shot during a firefight with federal agents who arrived at his home to serve a search warrant. Malinowski, 53, sustained gunshot wounds and was treated on the scene before being transported to a local hospital. One ATF agent also suffered a non-life-threatening gunshot wound during the incident.
Neighbors reported being startled by the sound of gunfire and observed authorities loading guns and ammunition onto a trailer from Malinowski’s residence. The incident is now under investigation by the state police Criminal Investigation Division, with a determination on the use of deadly force expected to be made by the prosecuting attorney. Shane Carter, the public affairs director for the airport, confirmed Malinowski’s role as executive director but did not provide further comment. The airport, named after Bill and Hillary Clinton in 2012, remains operational under the direction of the deputy executive director.
As the community grapples with the shocking events at the executive director’s home, prayers have been offered for all individuals involved. Malinowski, who has a long history in aviation, began working at the airport in 2008 and assumed the role of executive director in 2019. The incident has left many wondering about the circumstances that led to the firefight and the subsequent injuries sustained by Malinowski and the ATF agent. The airport’s operations continue under the guidance of an acting executive director as the investigation unfolds.