Andrew “Andy” Maliskas, a well-respected lieutenant in the Bartlett Police Department and a beloved family man, has passed away unexpectedly following a sudden medical emergency. His death has left not only his family but also his colleagues, friends, and the larger community in deep sorrow as they remember a man who exemplified leadership, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to his duties. News of his tragic passing was confirmed this week by the Bartlett Police Department, who expressed their profound sadness in a public statement, calling for prayers and support for the Maliskas family during this incredibly challenging time.
Andy Maliskas held the rank of Lieutenant within the Bartlett Police Department, where he dedicated himself tirelessly to his work, embodying the values of integrity, service, and compassion. In addition to being a trusted leader, Andy was a loving husband to his wife, Macayla Maliskas, and a treasured son and brother, roles he valued deeply and embraced wholeheartedly. Known for his genuine kindness and a steadfast dedication that went beyond his duties, Lieutenant Maliskas was not just a colleague but a friend and mentor to many within the department, fostering an atmosphere of camaraderie and mutual respect. His sudden departure has left a lasting void in the hearts of those who knew him personally and professionally.
The Bartlett Police Department shared a heartfelt statement on social media, highlighting Lieutenant Maliskas’s impact on the department and community at large. “It is with deep sadness that I inform you of the passing of Lieutenant Andy Maliskas. Lieutenant Maliskas was a valued team member whose leadership and knowledge contributed to the overall success of our department,” read the statement. “Lieutenant Maliskas brought kindness and warmth to the workplace, and he will be deeply missed.” The announcement emphasized the profound sense of loss felt within the department and the wider community, underscoring the powerful impact he had made over the years.
Lieutenant Maliskas’s influence extended beyond his official duties; he was a beacon of encouragement and a source of motivation to young officers, whom he took under his wing and mentored with patience and dedication. Many of his colleagues remember him as an individual who was always willing to offer support, whether it was through imparting valuable knowledge, offering a listening ear, or providing guidance in times of need. He possessed a unique ability to balance authority with empathy, creating an environment where those around him felt both respected and valued. His colleagues have shared countless stories of his generosity, kindness, and resilience, painting a picture of a man who truly embodied what it means to serve and protect.
As news of his passing spread, the Bartlett community united in their grief, paying tribute to a man who had dedicated his life to service and integrity. Messages of condolence have flooded in from across the state, as well as from neighboring departments, who have acknowledged the influence and inspiration Lieutenant Maliskas provided to his peers. The Atoka Police Department, which worked closely with the Bartlett Police Department on various initiatives, expressed its deepest condolences in a public statement, acknowledging Andy’s legacy of dedication and kindness. “The Atoka Police Department extends our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Lieutenant Andy Maliskas, and to the entire Bartlett Police Department,” read the statement. “Lieutenant Maliskas’s dedication, leadership, and kindness have left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege to know and work with him. His legacy will continue to inspire, and he will be profoundly missed by all who served alongside him.”
In addition to his professional commitments, Andy was known for his deep love and devotion to his family. His wife, Macayla, was his steadfast partner and greatest supporter, and he was a cherished member of a close-knit family that valued each other’s company and shared countless memories together. His family’s loss is unimaginable, and their pain is shared by all those who were touched by his kindness, warmth, and unwavering support. Friends and family members have recalled moments of joy, laughter, and comfort with Andy, painting a portrait of a man who was equally committed to his family as he was to his community. His role as a son and brother was one he cherished deeply, and his impact on his loved ones is evident in the heartfelt tributes shared by those who held him dear.
In light of his sudden passing, the Maliskas family has received an overwhelming outpouring of support from the community, with countless individuals offering their condolences and prayers. This support has been a source of comfort to Andy’s family, who have expressed their gratitude for the kindness shown during this difficult time. The Bartlett Police Department has also organized various tributes to honor his memory, allowing community members to come together in remembrance of a man who gave selflessly and touched the lives of so many. Vigils, memorial gatherings, and social media tributes have provided avenues for those who knew Andy to share their memories and celebrate the legacy he leaves behind.
Funeral arrangements and a formal obituary for Lieutenant Maliskas are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days. Meanwhile, the community is preparing to honor him in a series of memorial events that will allow friends, family, colleagues, and community members to pay their respects. The outpouring of support has been a testament to the impact Andy had, not only within the law enforcement community but across Bartlett and beyond. His family, friends, and colleagues are united in grief, but also in gratitude for the time they were able to share with him and the profound difference he made in each of their lives.
As the Bartlett Police Department and the community continue to mourn, they do so with the knowledge that Lieutenant Maliskas’s legacy will endure. His influence will be felt for generations to come as his colleagues carry forward the lessons he imparted, his values, and his commitment to service. His memory will serve as a guiding light for the many young officers he mentored, reminding them of the importance of compassion, strength, and integrity in their roles. His legacy will live on, not only in the memories of those he worked alongside but also in the hearts of his family and the community he so dearly loved
