Robert Mueller, the former special counsel whose investigation into alleged Russian interference in the 2016 US election defined much of Donald Trump's first term in office, has died aged 81.
The cause of his death was not immediately clear. CBS News, the BBC US partner, confirmed his death.
With deep sadness, we are sharing the news that Bob passed away on Friday night, his family told the AP in a statement. His family asks that their privacy be respected.
Mueller led the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) from 2001 to 2013, taking office just days before the 11 September 2001 terror attacks. He is credited with reshaping it into a modern counterterrorism agency.
Mueller is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Ann Cabell Standish, their two daughters, and three grandchildren.
His special counsel inquiry put Donald Trump's 2016 campaign under a microscope, drawing harsh criticism from the US president. Trump wrote on social media, I'm glad he's dead. He can no longer hurt innocent people! indicating a lingering animosity towards Mueller.
Former presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama paid tribute to Mueller. Bush noted how his leadership helped transition the FBI post-9/11, while Obama praised him as one of the finest directors in FBI history. Mueller's integrity was recognized by many, including former FBI director James Comey, who succeeded him.
Born in 1944, Mueller served in the Marines during the Vietnam War, earning commendations for valor, then pursued law, graduating from the University of Virginia. He was unanimously confirmed as FBI director in 2001.
Mueller's later investigation into Russian attempts to influence the 2016 presidential election lasted nearly two years and culminated in a 448-page report that detailed significant interference but fell short of establishing direct collusion with the Trump campaign.
Reflecting on his career and the investigation in an interview, Mueller indicated a strong commitment to public service, but acknowledged the challenges he faced in his role.
