University of Texas Police Chief David Carter died from an undisclosed form of cancer at the age of 64 on Friday (April 22), the school's news department reported.
According to UT, Carter was hired to lead its law enforcement agency in 2013.
“It saddens me deeply that we lost such an integral part of our university community,” UT President Jay Hartzell said of Carter, per Austin ABC affiliate KVUE. “Chief Carter not only understood the impact of policing, he also embraced the role of our force in protecting and supporting our students and the university community. My deep-felt condolences go out to his family, friends and colleagues who all share in this great loss of an outstanding leader.”
According to UT News, Carter crafted a 38-year law enforcement career.
As the university's police chief, he transformed the department to where it operated with three focused divisions known as Police Technical Specialty Groups, the school said.
He also worked for the Austin Police Department (APD).
APD Chief Joseph Chacon took to Twitter to pay tribute to his late counterpart.
"Chief Carter was a great friend and mentor," Chacon said in a tweet. "He made the profession better through his steadfast dedication and integrity. You will be greatly missed my friend, rest in peace."
Aside from leading UT police, Carter also served as assistant vice president for campus safety, a position he assumed in 2018, KVUE reported.
UTPD Acting Chief Don Verett said Carter's loss felt like that of a beloved family member.
“Chief Carter was admired and respected by all of the law enforcement professionals who were fortunate to work under his leadership and instruction," Verett said, per KVUE. "His body of work and reputation continue to be an inspiration to UTPD, and we will continue to look to Chief Carter as an example to live up to.”