Judy Malinowski, a courageous and resilient woman, endured unimaginable suffering and became a symbol of strength in the face of domestic violence. Born on August 26, 1983, in Ohio, USA, Judy’s life took a tragic turn when her volatile ex-boyfriend set her on fire in August 2015, leaving her with devastating burns covering 95% of her body.
Miraculously, she survived for nearly two years, undergoing numerous surgeries and treatments, all while fighting for justice and advocating for other victims of domestic violence. Judy’s unwavering spirit and determination led to the establishment of “Judy’s Law” to protect others affected by such crimes. Her story continues to inspire and raise awareness about the urgent need for change in society.
Judy Malinowski’s life was tragically altered on August 2, 2015, when her volatile relationship with her ex-boyfriend, Michael Slager, took a horrifying turn. This article delves into the life, the harrowing incident, and the subsequent legal proceedings surrounding Judy Malinowski’s case, shedding light on her age, background, family, the fire incident, and her impactful testimony even after her passing.
Early Life and Background
Judy Malinowski was born on August 26th, 1983, in Ohio, United States of America. Like any other child, the daughter of Bonnie Bowes and David Weinstein, Judy grew up with dreams and aspirations. Her good life took a tragic turn due to her tumultuous relationship with Michael Slager.

The Devastating Fire Incident
On that fateful day in August 2015, outside a Gahanna gas station, Judy Malinowski was horrifically burned by her ex-boyfriend, Michael Slager. In the aftermath of the incident, Judy suffered burns to 95% of her body and underwent a long and arduous journey of recovery. She endured a staggering 59 surgeries and spent nearly two years in the hospital. The severity of her injuries and the pain she endured were unimaginable.
Wiki | Quick Bio
Name | Judy Malinowski |
Birthday | August 26, 1983 |
Date of Death | June 27, 2017 |
Age | 33 years old at the time of her death |
Birthplace | Ohio, United States |
Zodiac Sign | Virgo |
Parents | Father: David Gorman Mother: Bonnie Bowes |
Siblings | Sister: Danielle Gorman Brother: Patrick Bowes Stepbrothers: Nicholas, Joseph, and Mark Bowes |
Marital Status | Unmarried |
Relationship | Judy was in a relationship with her boyfriend, Michael Slager |
Boyfriend | Michael Slager |
Kids | Two daughters: Madison Malinowski and Kaylyn Malinowski |
Career | Judy worked as a Customer Service Adviser |
Net Worth | $100K (approx.) |
Height | 5 feet 6 inches (approx.) |
Weight | 55 kilograms (approx.) |
Hair Color | Blonde |
Eye Color | Blue |
Education | Graduate |
Alma Mater | Reputed University |
Ethnicity | Mixed |
Nationality | American |
Religion | Christian |
#judymalinowski | |
Website | judysfoundation.org |
Homepage | Dreshare.com |
Ex-Boyfriend & Burning Case
In August 2015, Judy Malinowski’s ex-boyfriend, Michael Slager, committed a heinous act by dousing her in gasoline and setting her on fire outside a Gahanna gas station. The attack left Judy with burns covering 95% of her body. Despite the severity of her injuries, Judy fought for her life and survived for nearly two years. Her resilience and will to live were nothing short of remarkable.

Michael Slager, the ex-boyfriend responsible for the brutal act, faced legal consequences for his actions. In July 2018, he pleaded guilty to aggravated murder and managed to avoid a potential death penalty. The guilty plea resulted in a life sentence without the possibility of parole. Although this brought some closure to the case, it could never undo the pain and suffering inflicted upon Judy and her loved ones.
Judy Malinowski Children
Judy Malinowski’s two daughters, who were aged 9 and 13 at the time of the attack, were directly affected by the tragic events surrounding their mother’s assault and subsequent passing. They experienced the shock and pain of witnessing their mother’s suffering, which undoubtedly left a lasting impact on their young lives.

Establishing a Foundation for Domestic Violence Survivors
In the aftermath of their mother’s death, Judy Malinowski’s children, supported by their grandmother Bonnie Bowes, have been working to establish a foundation aimed at helping survivors of domestic violence. This foundation will serve as a testament to their mother’s strength and a way to support others who have experienced similar traumas.
Testifying for Legislative Changes
Judy Malinowski’s daughter, Kaylynn Malinowski, demonstrated immense courage by testifying in support of Judy’s Law before the state’s Senate Judiciary Committee. This law, named in honor of her mother, seeks to provide further protection and support for victims of domestic violence. Kaylynn’s testimony was instrumental in raising awareness and advocating for changes in legislation.

Parents & Siblings
Throughout Judy’s ordeal, her family, including her mother and father Bonnie Bowes and David Weinstein, provided unwavering support and love. Their presence and dedication to seeking justice for Judy exemplify the strength of familial bonds in times of adversity. Malinowski’s siblings, the search results do not provide specific names or detailed information about them.

However, it is mentioned that Judy had a sister and a brother. As per the sources, she has a sister named Danielle Gorman and a brother named Patrick Bowes. Not only this, but she also has three stepbrothers named Nicholas, Joseph, and Mark Bowes.
Judy Malinowski’s Testimony
Judy Malinowski made history as the first person to testify at her own murder trial from beyond the grave. Before her passing, she recorded a video deposition that was used in Slager’s 2018 murder trial. Judy’s courageous testimony served as powerful evidence against her ex-boyfriend, ensuring that he would be held accountable for his actions.

Judy’s Fight for Justice
Despite her excruciating physical condition, Judy Malinowski displayed immense strength and determination. She became an emblem of resilience and a symbol for survivors of domestic violence. Judy’s battle for justice against her attacker and advocacy for the rights of domestic violence victims would inspire many.
Judy’s Testimony from the Grave
Judy Malinowski’s story gained national attention when she made history by testifying at her own trial from beyond the grave. She recorded a video deposition less than five months before her untimely death, which was supposed to be used in the trial against Michael Slager. This powerful testimony served as a testament to her strength and an invaluable resource in seeking justice for her.

Is Judy Malinowski Still Alive?
Judy Malinowski, the courageous woman who survived a horrific attack and testified against her attacker, unfortunately, passed away on June 27, 2017. According to the search results, Judy Malinowski died nearly two years after being set on fire by her ex-boyfriend.
She endured extensive burns to 95% of her body and fought to stay alive for a remarkable 696 days. Despite her unimaginable suffering, Judy Malinowski used her strength and determination to advocate for other victims of domestic violence and seek justice.
Documentary – The Fire That Took Her
Judy Malinowski’s tragic story gained significant attention and was the subject of a true-crime documentary titled “The Fire That Took Her”. The documentary chronicles the events leading up to the incident, Judy’s fight for justice, and the lasting impact she had on domestic violence advocacy. It serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to address domestic violence and protect its victims.

Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
Michael Slager, Judy’s ex-boyfriend, was sentenced for his heinous act. In July 2018, he pleaded guilty and avoided the death penalty, reaching an agreement with prosecutors. The presiding judge at the Franklin County Common Pleas Court sentenced Slager to life behind bars without the possibility of parole. While this sentencing brought some closure to the case, it could never erase the pain and loss suffered by Judy’s loved ones.
Impact and Legacy
Judy Malinowski’s tragic story sparked a national conversation about domestic violence and the urgent need for more robust measures to protect victims. Her courage and perseverance continue to inspire advocacy and change, shedding light on the importance of addressing the issue of domestic violence.

Family and Mourning
Judy Malinowski left behind two daughters, who were 9 and 13 years old at the time of the attack. Her mother, Bonnie Bowes, stood by Judy’s side throughout her ordeal, providing unwavering support and love. The loss of Judy left a void in their lives that can never be filled, but her memory lives on through the impact she made and the legacy she left behind.
Funeral and Obituary
After her passing on June 27, 2017, Judy Malinowski’s funeral was held to honor her life and mourn her tragic death. Her loved ones, friends, and supporters gathered to pay their respects, celebrating her strength and resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity.

Conclusion
Judy Malinowski’s story is a heart-wrenching reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence. Her courage, determination, and unwavering spirit continue to inspire others to fight against injustice and advocate for the rights of survivors. Judy’s legacy serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for societal change, ensuring that no one else has to endure the pain and suffering she experienced.
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