“Deep loss for the state of Tennessee”

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) – The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation mourns the loss of its former Director, Mark Gwyn.

The TBI reports that Gwyn died at his home near Nashville at the age of 61. He is believed to have died of natural causes.

“I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Director Gwyn,” said TBI Director David Rausch. “Mark had a profound impact on the bureau, contributing to its growth and innovation and cementing our reputation as a leader in law enforcement. We will honor his contributions, remember his legacy and celebrate his life in the days and weeks ahead.”

Gwyn was a graduate of Middle Tennessee State University and began his law enforcement career in 1985 as a police officer in his hometown of McMinnville. Not long after, he joined the TBI as a special agent in the Criminal Investigation Division.

He continued to climb the career ladder at TBI, and in 2004, Governor Phil Bredesen appointed Gwyn as director. He was the first African American to hold the post, which he held until his retirement in 2018, according to TBI.

Others across the state joined the TBI in mourning Gwyn’s death:

“The death of Mark Gwyn is a great loss for the state of Tennessee. As head of the TBI, he was a tremendous asset and advocate for law enforcement across the state. His dedication to the public and their safety in every community was an inspiration to all of us in law enforcement. I will miss him as a leader, but also as a friend,” said District Attorney Glenn Funk.

“The Department of Children's Services and Commissioner Margie Quin join the people of Tennessee in mourning the loss of former Tennessee Bureau of Investigation Director Mark Gwyn. Gwyn and Quin – both committed anti-human trafficking advocates – worked closely together at TBI for more than 20 years,” the Tennessee Department of Children's Services said.

“Today, Commissioner Quin recognizes the lasting impact Gwyn has had on the lives of many young survivors. 'Mark Gwyn's tireless dedication to the fight against human trafficking will be remembered with deep gratitude. We honor his legacy of public service by continuing the important work he championed with such passion.' Our thoughts are with Gwyn's loved ones and our government partners at TBI as they navigate the difficult days ahead.”

All rights reserved.