On the night of September 5, 2023, at approximately 11:40 p.m., Sacramento police responded to reports of a shooting in the 1000 block of Florin Road. Upon arrival, officers discovered 43-year-old Russell Malcolm suffering from at least one gunshot wound. Despite immediate life-saving efforts and transportation to a local hospital, Malcolm succumbed to his injuries.
In the ensuing investigation, homicide detectives and crime scene investigators processed the scene, canvassed the area, and interviewed witnesses to determine the circumstances leading up to the shooting. Approximately two weeks later, on September 19, 2023, authorities arrested 43-year-old Amatari Mabinton in connection with Malcolm's death. The arrest was made in Elk Grove with the assistance of the Elk Grove Police Department's SWAT team. Mabinton was booked on homicide-related charges and is being held without bail.
Family members of the victim have hailed Malcolm as a hero, stating that he was approached by someone in need of help on the night of the incident. According to his wife, Diana, Malcolm's actions may have saved two lives before he was fatally shot. The family continues to seek clarity on the events that transpired between Malcolm's act of assistance and his subsequent death.
In the wake of this tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign was established to support Malcolm's family, including his wife and three young children. The campaign highlights Malcolm's dedication to his family and his selfless nature, noting that he was a self-employed painter and the primary provider for his household.
As the investigation continues, authorities have not disclosed whether Malcolm and Mabinton were acquainted or provided specific details regarding the motive behind the shooting. The Sacramento Police Department encourages anyone with information about the incident to come forward to assist in the ongoing investigation.
