Bruges (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Bruges Police Chief Yves Rotty passed away unexpectedly last night, sparking shock and tributes across the force for the widely respected law enforcement leader.
He was discovered in his Bruges, Belgium, residence. According to a statement from the Bruges police, he passed away due to medical reasons. He has one daughter and was 56 years old.
“It is with regret that we report the passing of our Chief of Police HCP Yves Rotty,”
Says spokesperson Lien Depoorter of the Bruges police zone.
“He was found in his home in Bruges on Wednesday evening, 28 May 2025, and died as a result of medical reasons.”
For just two years, Yves Rotty led the Bruges police. In 2023, Dirk Van Nuffel retired, and he took over.
“The much too early and unexpected death of police chief Yves Rotty has deeply affected me, the entire force, the board of aldermen and the municipal council of Bruges,”
Said Bruges mayor Dirk De fauw (CD&V).
“Yves was chief of police for almost 2 years. For him, this position was his dream, his life. I could count on Yves day and night. He was not a man of many words, but was a very human chief of police with whom I had a perfect collaboration. I myself, but many with me, will miss Yves very much.”
How has the Bruges police community responded to his passing?
In response to Police Chief Yves Rotty’s passing, the Bruges police community has expressed their profound respect and sadness.
Noting his 32 years of service and dedication to public safety in Bruges, colleagues and officials have emphasized his longstanding leadership and dedication within the force. In an official statement, the police acknowledged his untimely passing from medical causes and emphasized the loss experienced by the whole department.
His personal traits and the influence he had on the police force and the general public have also been acknowledged in tributes. The force is in a state of mourning, and preparations are probably in motion to pay tribute to him and assist his family during this trying period.
