TBI mourns the passing of former Director Mark Gwyn and honors his legacy

Mark Gwyn

Former director of the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, Mark Gwyn, has died at the age of 61 in his home near Nashville, apparently of natural causes.

A graduate of Middle Tennessee State University, Director Gwyn began his career in law enforcement in 1985 as a police officer in his hometown of McMinnville. Three years later, he joined the TBI as a special agent in the Criminal Investigation Division. Eight years later, he was promoted to senior officer and later served as deputy director of the Forensic Services Division.

In June 2004, Governor Phil Bredesen appointed Director Gwyn as TBI Director, the first African American to hold the position, which he held until his retirement in 2018.

“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.”

Funeral arrangements are pending and will be announced on the office's Facebook page at a later date, if necessary.