02/11/2026
The Blinn College District Police Department would like to extend our condolences to the family, friends, members of the City of Bryan Police Department and the citizens of the City of Bryan for the loss of Assistant Chief Walt Melnyk.
Bryan Police Department Mourns the Passing of Assistant Chief Walt Melnyk
The Bryan Police Department announces with deep sadness the passing of Assistant Chief Walt Melnyk, who died on Sunday, February 8, 2026, after a courageous battle with leukemia.
Assistant Chief Melnyk was a devoted public servant, respected leader, and compassionate mentor whose strength, faith and commitment to others defined his life and career. He was known not only for his professional excellence but mostly for his unwavering devotions to his family and his faith in the Lord.
A 26-year veteran of the Bryan Police Department, Assistant Chief Melnyk began his career in August 1999 as a patrol officer. Over the course of his distinguished career, he served in numerous key roles, including Patrol, Public Information and Crime Prevention, Directed Deployment Team, Criminal Investigations, Internal Affairs, Training and Recruiting, and as Bureau Commander of the Criminal Investigations Division.
Throughout his service, Assistant Chief Melnyk built a reputation as a leader who cared deeply for his people, inspired excellence, and embraced innovation. His leadership contributed to successful crime reduction efforts, major investigative operations, enhanced training programs, and forward-thinking initiatives that strengthened the department and community.
Chief of Police Dean Swartzlander said:
“For more than 18 years, Assistant Chief Melnyk served in leadership roles, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to excellence and continuous improvement. He was a driven and forward-thinking leader who challenged the status quo and worked tirelessly to strengthen the department and inspire those he led. Above all, he will be remembered for his character, compassion, and steadfast devotion to his family, his faith, his colleagues, and the community he served with honor, humility, and integrity.”
Throughout his life and service, Assistant Chief Melnyk embodied the spirit of Isaiah 6:8: “Here I am. Send Me.” His willingness to serve others, answer the call of duty, and lead with courage and compassion reflected his deep faith and unwavering commitment to his family, his department, and his community.
Assistant Chief Melnyk received numerous commendations and honors for his service, including multiple Police Commendations, a Life-Saving Citation, the Master Peace Officer Certification, and graduation from the prestigious FBI National Academy. He earned his undergraduate degree from Texas A&M University, Class of 1998, and later obtained a master’s degree in Criminal Justice Leadership and Management from Sam Houston State University.
For more than two decades, Assistant Chief Melnyk served the department with distinction, continually striving to improve the organization and those he led.
The Bryan Police Department extends its heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of serving alongside him.
Link below for funeral arrangements
https://www.callawayjones.com/obituaries/walter-melnyk
