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 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 FBI from 2001 to 2013, taking the office just days before the September 11, 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 scrutinized Donald Trump's 2016 campaign, leading to numerous legal challenges and public debate.
Trump reacted sharply to Mueller's death, expressing in a message: I'm glad he's dead. He can no longer hurt innocent people! However, tributes poured in from Mueller's colleagues and former presidents, with George W. Bush and Barack Obama recognizing his public service and leadership.
Mueller was born in 1944, and after serving in the Vietnam War, he graduated from law school in 1973. He was unanimously confirmed as FBI director in August 2001, serving until 2013.
His tenure saw extensive scrutiny of Russia's interference in the 2016 election, culminating in the comprehensive, though ultimately inconclusive, Mueller report. His investigations led to numerous indictments within Trump's inner circle, reflecting his enduring impact on American political discourse.
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