In a shocking turn of events, Bryan Malinowski, the executive director of the Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport, was killed during a shootout with federal agents who raided his Arkansas home. A newly released affidavit has revealed that Malinowski was involved in illegal gun dealing, purchasing and reselling over 150 firearms without a dealer's license.

According to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Malinowski had been under active investigation for his illicit firearms activities spanning from May 2021 to February 2024. The affidavit, heavily redacted but made public on Thursday, stated that around six of the weapons sold by Malinowski had been linked to various crimes. In addition, undercover federal agents were able to purchase three firearms directly from Malinowski at Arkansas gun shows.

It was reported that Malinowski had legally purchased the firearms and falsely indicated on the purchase forms that they were for his personal use. However, he would then quickly resell them, sometimes within just 24 hours. The affidavit further highlighted that Malinowski's actions violated the law regarding private firearm sales to individuals who may not have been legally entitled to purchase them.

Despite the allegations outlined in the ATF affidavit, Malinowski's family expressed their belief that the use of deadly force during the raid was unjustified. Through their attorney, the family stated, "At worst, Bryan Malinowski, a gun owner and gun enthusiast, stood accused of making private firearm sales to a person who may not have been legally entitled to purchase the guns."

Tragically, Malinowski was shot during the exchange of gunfire with ATF agents while they were attempting to serve a search warrant. He succumbed to his injuries on Thursday, as confirmed by his employer. An ATF agent was also injured in the shootout, but the wound was deemed non-life-threatening.

Prior to the raid on Tuesday, federal agents had been monitoring Malinowski's activities, even placing a tracker on his SUV. This surveillance revealed erratic driving patterns at times. Malinowski had assumed the role of executive director of the Clinton National Airport in 2019, and his salary of approximately $264,000 made him the highest-paid official in the city of Little Rock.

Bill Walker, chair of the Little Rock Municipal Airport Commission, expressed condolences and praised Malinowski's contributions to the airport, stating, "Under his leadership, our airport has experienced significant growth and success, expanding services and offerings to our community and state."

Matthew Malinowski, the brother of Bryan, expressed doubt regarding the allegations against his sibling. He described Bryan as an avid gun collector and found it improbable that he would be involved in illegal activities, considering his apparent financial security.

As the investigation continues, the shocking revelation of illegal gun dealing by a high-ranking airport official raises concerns about the potential for firearms to end up in the wrong hands.