The executive director of Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport in Little Rock, Arkansas, Bryan Malinowski, was wounded by gunfire Tuesday morning when federal agents attempted to execute a search warrant at his residence.

According to Arkansas State Police, the incident unfolded around 6 a.m. as agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) approached Malinowski's home.

The executive director of the Bill and Hillary Clinton Airport in Little Rock, Arkansas, was shot Tuesday as federal agents arrived at his home to serve a search warrant, police said. https://t.co/Zu6KA3zUQC

— NBC News (@NBCNews) March 20, 2024

The incident

Malinowski, 53, sustained gunshot wounds during an exchange of gunfire and was treated at the scene by paramedics before being taken to a local hospital.

The severity of his injuries remained undisclosed as of 12:30 p.m. Tuesday. Additionally, one ATF agent suffered a non-life-threatening gunshot wound and was also hospitalized, authorities stated.

Matthew Malinowski, Bryan's older brother, expressed uncertainty about Bryan's survival, revealing that Bryan had been shot in the head and was currently on life support.

Despite being a collector of firearms, weapons, and coins, Bryan had no previous encounters with law enforcement, as per public records.

Witnesses give accounts

Witnesses in the neighborhood reported being awakened by the sound of several loud bangs, sparking concern and speculation about the nature of the commotion. Residents observed authorities loading guns and ammunition onto a trailer and firefighters carrying tools into the house later in the day.

Matthew Malinowski disclosed that Bryan had recently met with Arkansas senators in Washington for official airport business, indicating the high-profile nature of his role.

The state police's Criminal Investigation Division is conducting an inquiry into the incident, with further steps contingent on the assessment of whether the use of force complied with Arkansas law.

The airport's statement

Shane Carter, the public affairs director for the Clinton National Airport, confirmed Bryan's position but refrained from providing additional comments.

In light of the incident, Tom Clarke, the deputy executive director, assumed the role of acting executive director, with assurances that airport operations would continue as normal.

Formerly known as Little Rock National Airport, the facility was renamed in 2012 to honor former President Bill Clinton and then-Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, both prominent figures with deep connections to Arkansas.

The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain under investigation, with authorities striving to piece together the events leading to the exchange of gunfire at Bryan Malinowski's residence. As the community awaits updates on his condition, concerns and questions linger about the incident involving the executive director of a major airport facility.