No charges filed in Hiawatha teen's death

No charges will be filed in the death of a Hiawatha teenager after a fistfight two months ago.

Zachary M. Maloney, 18, died Sept. 6 after fighting with a friend in the parking lot of All Clear, 1237 Lake Ave. NE. An autopsy revealed Maloney died from blunt-force trauma to the head, officials said.

Linn County Attorney Jerry Vander Sanden said there was no evidence to warrant the filing of criminal charges.

“My decision was based on the investigative materials and witness accounts, which indicate the decedent initiated and pursued a physical confrontation with another, in which they were both voluntary mutual combatants,” Vander Sanden said.

According to the police report, Maloney and Ethan Cox, 19, exchanged words shortly after 6 p.m. and the altercation turned physical. Maloney fell to the ground, and the two young men wrestled until he began experiencing seizure-like symptoms.

Friends took Maloney to St. Luke's Hospital, where he died a short time later, police said. Maloney's family was told he struck his head during the fall.

Maloney and Cox were long-time friends and co-workers at All Clear, a window- and gutter-cleaning business.

Prosecutors determined Cox's actions during the incident were reasonable and justified. Vander Sanden said there was no known animosity between the two parties before the fight.

“The most that can be said is that the incident was a regrettable and tragic event that had consequences that were unintended and unexpected,” Vander Sanden said. “Under the circumstances, I don't believe there is a criminal charge that applies.”

Andrea Fernandez, Maloney's mother, said the family is supportive of the county attorney's decision.

“They were truly friends, best friends,” Fernandez said. “Our understanding, based on the information, is that it was just truly an unfortunate accident. I know there was no intent or ill will.”

According to his obituary, Maloney enjoyed playing guitar, drawing, music and skateboarding with friends.

“He was a very caring person,” Fernandez said. “Very loyal to his friends and very loving to people.”