Ernest J. Malatinka was 47 and a sergeant with the Hammond Police Department when he was found dead at the Robertsdale substation on December 29, 1984. He had served with the department for seventeen years and was described as a respected officer by colleagues and the community.

Malatinka died of a single gunshot wound. Gun-cleaning materials were found on his desk, and investigators concluded his death resulted from an accidental discharge of the shotgun he was handling. No evidence of foul play was reported, and no arrests or suspects were named.

The department and the community mourned the loss of a long-serving officer. If anyone has information about Sergeant Malatinka’s death or remembers him from his time in Hammond, please share what you know.