Former FBI Director Robert Mueller Dies at 81

Former FBI Director and special counsel Robert Mueller has died at the age of 81, his family confirmed Saturday.

“With deep sadness, we are sharing the news that Bob passed away last night,” his family said, asking for privacy. A cause of death was not immediately announced, though Mueller had reportedly battled Parkinson’s disease in recent years.

Mueller was one of the most prominent figures in modern U.S. law enforcement. Born in New York City in 1944, he served as a Marine officer during the Vietnam War and received several military honors, including a Bronze Star. He later earned his law degree from the University of Virginia.

In 2001, Mueller became FBI director, serving for 12 years under both Republican and Democratic administrations. He led the bureau through major changes following the September 11 attacks, with a strong focus on counterterrorism and national security.

Mueller later became special counsel in 2017 to investigate Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. His 2019 report concluded that Russia conducted a broad campaign to influence the election, but did not establish a criminal conspiracy between the Trump campaign and Russia.

Remembered as a reserved and disciplined public servant, Mueller leaves behind a decades-long legacy in law enforcement, national security and government service.