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 previously 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.
Mueller's special counsel inquiry scrutinized Donald Trump's 2016 campaign, drawing fierce criticism from the US president. Trump expressed his feelings on social media following the news, stating, I'm glad he's dead. He can no longer hurt innocent people! Despite this, tributes from former presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama highlighted Mueller's public service, integrity, and dedication to the rule of law.
Mueller was born in 1944 and had a distinguished career in law and public service, transitioning the FBI following the September 11 attacks. His investigation into Russian interference produced a significant report but concluded without establishing that the Trump campaign conspired with Russia.
The investigation's findings noted that while it did not conclude that the president committed a crime, it also did not exonerate him. Mueller's work, although contentious, aimed at upholding democratic integrity and the legality of the electoral process.
