Ex-FBI chief Robert Mueller dies at 81

Former FBI Director Robert Mueller has died at 81. He had been living with Parkinson’s disease since 2021.

Mueller built a reputation for discipline and integrity over decades of public service. Former President George W. Bush appointed him days before the September 11 attacks, after which he reshaped the FBI’s focus toward counterterrorism.

Former President Barack Obama later extended Mueller’s tenure to 12 years, making it one of the longest in FBI history.

A decorated Marine veteran of the Vietnam War, Mueller received honors including the Bronze Star and Purple Heart. He also led major investigations, including the Lockerbie bombing.

In 2017, he led the Russia probe into President Donald Trump’s campaign. The 448-page report documented dozens of contacts with Russian officials and resulted in charges against 37 individuals and entities, with several convictions of Trump associates. It found Russia interfered in the election and that the campaign expected to benefit.

However, Mueller did not establish a criminal conspiracy and did not charge Trump with obstruction, citing limits on indicting a sitting president.