RILEY COUNTY — On Sunday, October 15, 2023, the Honorable Judge William Malcolm passed away as a result of injuries sustained in a vehicle crash. Judge Malcolm was sworn onto the bench in January of 2007 and was planning to retire at the end of 2024. The judiciary mourns his tragic death and offers our thoughts and prayers to his family.
Chief Judge Grant Bannister stated that “Bill was a kindhearted human being and a valued colleague. He was a dedicated public official that served the people of Kansas well. Particularly, the citizens of Clay and Riley County. He was good natured and often ready with a good story to lighten the day. He presided over some of the most serious criminal preliminary hearings during the last two decades. Yet he also took joy in conducting wedding ceremonies and undoubtedly is responsible for more marriages in Riley and Clay County that anyone else in the last twenty years. Bill will be missed."
TOPEKA — Today, October 19, 2023 in accordance with Executive Order #20-30, Governor Laura Kelly directed flags be lowered to half-staff at the State Capitol Complex and all court buildings and facilities until Monday, October 23, 2023, to honor 21st District Magistrate Judge William Malcolm, who died from injuries sustained in a car accident earlier this month.
“Judge Malcolm was a dedicated public servant who, for nearly two decades, worked hard to ensure justice for the citizens of Clay and Riley counties,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “On behalf of the State of Kansas, I thank him for his service. My deepest condolences go out to his loved ones.”
Judge Malcolm passed away on October 15, 2023. A public visitation will be held on Sunday, October 22, 2023.
To receive email alerts when the governor orders flags to half-staff, please visit: https://governor.kansas.gov/newsroom/kansas-flag-honors.