A Distinguished Life Cut Short on a Mission of Justice

The legal, investigative, and military communities are grieving deeply following the tragic death of Retired Brigadier General Paul Rowlett, a man whose lifetime of service shaped countless careers, investigations, and courtrooms. Rowlett passed away in a devastating vehicle accident in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, while traveling to Monroe, Louisiana, where he was scheduled to testify in the ongoing Quinton Tellis trial. His sudden loss has not only shaken those who depended on his expertise, but also those who admired him for the unwavering integrity and discipline he carried into every facet of his life. His passing marks the end of a remarkable chapter in criminal investigation and military service—one defined by precision, dedication, and a profound sense of duty.

A Legacy Built on Service, Integrity, and Unmatched Expertise

Paul Rowlett’s career was nothing short of extraordinary. As a retired Brigadier General, he embodied the highest standards of honor and leadership. Those who served with him recall a man who led with calm authority, humility, and an unshakeable commitment to truth. His military experience laid the foundation for a second distinguished career as a renowned expert witness, where he became known for his meticulous investigative approach and ability to articulate complex case details with clarity and fairness.

Rowlett’s involvement in high-profile criminal cases earned him national respect. Among the most significant was the Jessica Chambers murder trial, in which the defendant, Quinton Tellis, also stands accused in the current Louisiana case. Rowlett’s investigative contributions were considered invaluable—his ability to reconstruct events, analyze inconsistencies, and bring objective insight into challenging legal proceedings set him apart from others in his field. His testimony was sought after because he brought more than expertise; he brought credibility, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to justice.

Colleagues describe him as the type of professional you hoped to have by your side—detailed, disciplined, and quietly powerful. He was admired not only for what he knew, but for who he was. One fellow expert witness said, “This is incredibly sad—a fellow expert gone far too soon. His dedication and knowledge were unparalleled.” Across investigative and legal circles, those words ring painfully true.

A Beloved Mentor, Friend, and Servant to His Country

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Paul Rowlett is remembered for his heart. His friends and family knew him as a man of deep character—thoughtful, principled, and fiercely loyal. He mentored younger investigators, supported his fellow servicemembers, and approached every relationship with sincerity and respect. He was the kind of person who made others feel steadier simply by being in the room.

His passing leaves a profound emptiness in the lives of those who relied on him, learned from him, and loved him. The absence of his steady voice, sharp mind, and warm presence will be felt in courtrooms and communities for years to come. Yet the legacy he leaves behind—a legacy rooted in service, honor, and truth—remains a guiding light for those who continue the work he devoted his life to.

Funeral arrangements will be shared by the family as they prepare to honor a man whose life moved mountains in both military and investigative worlds. May Brigadier General Paul Rowlett rest in eternal peace, and may those who knew him find comfort in the extraordinary legacy he leaves behind.