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DAVOS, Switzerland -(Dow Jones)- The death of the World Economic Forum's chief of security, Markus Reinhardt, was Tuesday confirmed by the government of the Swiss canton of Grison.
A government spokesman declined to comment on how the 61-year old police chief died, calling his death a tragic event. He said Marcel Suter has taken over Reinhardt's post, adding that security measures at the WEF remained intact at all times.
The canton's chief prosecutor said it has started an investigation into Reinhardt's death. Reinhardt was found in his hotel room earlier Tuesday.
The WEF said it mourned the loss.
"It is with great sadness and regret we learned of the tragic death of the Graubunden Cantonal Police Chief, Dr Reinhardt," the WEF said.
"During the many years during which we co-operated with him over security for our annual meeting at Davos, we appreciated his professionalism and his kindness. Our thoughts are with his loved ones and his colleagues. The security forces continue to have our full confidence and trust in their work," it added.
The death reverberated through the police force. "Sadly, my commander is dead," a local police officer, who requested to remain unnamed for he can't comment publicly, said.
Earlier, a spokeswoman for the summit said Reinhardt likely committed suicide just before world leaders started to convene.
"This has nothing to do with [the meeting]," the spokeswoman told Dow Jones Newswires.
(Marietta Cauchi contributed to this item.)
Copyright 2009 Dow Jones Newswires
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