NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation announced its previous director, Mark Gwyn, has died.
Gwyn was 61. TBI said he died from what appeared to be natural causes.
Gwyn began his career in law enforcement as a police officer in his hometown of McMinnville in 1985 after graduating from Middle Tennessee State University. He joined TBI three years later as a special agent in its Criminal Investigation Division before being promoted to executive office and later assistant director of the Forensic Services Division.
In June 2004, Gov. Phil Bredesen appointed Gwyn to lead TBI as its director. He was the first Black man to serve in the position and remained there until retiring in 2018. He was succeeded as director by David Rausch, Knoxville's former police chief.
"I am deeply saddened to hear of Director Gwyn's passing," Rausch said. "Mark had a profound impact on the Bureau, contributed to its growth and innovation, and solidified our reputation as a law enforcement leader. We will honor his contributions, remember his legacy, and celebrate his life in the days and weeks to come."
The Tennessee Department of Children's Services and Commissioner Margie Quin provided the following statement of Gwyn's passing:
"Mark Gwyn's tireless dedication to combating human trafficking will be remembered with deep gratitude. We honor his public service legacy by continuing the crucial work he championed with such passion. Our thoughts are with Gwyn’s loved ones and our state partners at the TBI as they navigate the difficult days ahead."
TBI said funeral arrangements have not been announced yet.