Former Tampa Police Chief A.C. McLane Dies At Age 81

TAMPA, FL — Members of the Tampa Police Department along with family and friends are mourning the death of longtime Tampa Police Chief Austin "A.C." McLane at the age of 81.

McLane became a Tampa police officer on Jan. 14, 1963, and rose through the ranks to become police chief on May 26, 1987. He retired on Sept. 27, 1991.

"A.C. McLane was the chief of police on the day I was sworn in and, for my first year as a Tampa police officer," said Tampa Police Chief Brian Dugan. "My thoughts and prayers are now with the entire McLane family as they navigate this time of mourning."

"Chief A.C. McLane led the Tampa Police Department with integrity, strength and honor. Through his daily actions, he exemplified what it meant to serve and protect our community, and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work for him as a young officer," said Mayor Jane Castor, who went on to become Tampa's first women police chief. "Chief McLane was a good man and humble leader who left an indelible mark on our community."

McLane was surrounded by family when he died in Georgia Friday due to complications from pancreatic cancer.

"The happiest best part of his life was when he was serving as a police officer for the good folks of Tampa, and his co-workers were his family," said his wife, Davene.

Donations can be made to the American Cancer Society in memory of McLane.