Former FBI Director Robert Mueller Dies at 81
Former Director of the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Robert Mueller, has passed away at the age of 81. Mueller, who gained prominence for his special investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 US presidential election, died on Friday night, his family confirmed.
The cause of Mueller's death has not been immediately disclosed. His family shared the sad news in a statement and requested privacy at this time.
Mueller led the FBI from 2001 to 2013. He took office just days before the September 11 terrorist attacks. He is credited with transforming the FBI from a traditional crime investigation agency into a modern counter-terrorism agency.
Former US Presidents have paid tribute to Mueller following his death. George W. Bush, who appointed Mueller as FBI chief, praised Mueller for successfully advancing the nation's security mission following September 11.
Former President Barack Obama called Mueller one of the finest directors in FBI history. Obama valued Mueller's tireless commitment to the rule of law and his unwavering belief in American values.
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump made negative remarks regarding Mueller's passing. Trump, who was highly displeased with Mueller's investigation, wrote on the social media platform Truth Social that he was happy about Mueller's death and that he could no longer harm innocent people. A significant portion of Trump's presidency was spent under the scrutiny of Mueller's investigation, which Trump consistently criticized.
Mueller's former colleague and successor, James Comey, described him as a great American and stated that he learned a great deal from him. The law firm WilmerHale, where Mueller worked, also remembered him as a man of integrity and an exceptional leader.
Born in 1944, Mueller studied political science at Princeton University. He enlisted in the US Marine Corps in 1968 and also participated in the Vietnam War. He lived with his wife, Ann Cabell Standish, two daughters, and three grandchildren.
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