Mark Gibson has been named interim Platte County prosecuting attorney following the death of longtime Prosecuting Attorney Eric Zahnd.

The presiding judge of the Platte County Circuit Court appointed Gibson, Zahnd’s longtime first assistant prosecuting attorney, under Missouri law governing vacancies in public office, according to a release issued Friday.

Gibson will lead the office until Gov. Mike Kehoe appoints a permanent replacement.

The appointment is intended to provide continuity of leadership and allow the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office to continue operating without interruption during the transition, the release said.

“Eric’s passing is a profound loss for our office, the people who work here in the office and our community,” Gibson said. “My thoughts are with his family during this incredibly difficult time.”

Gibson said he is committed to honoring Zahnd’s legacy and ensuring the office’s work continues without interruption.

“The people of Platte County can count on me, our attorneys and our staff to continue carrying out their responsibilities with the same integrity, professionalism and commitment to justice they have come to expect,” Gibson said.

Gibson worked alongside Zahnd for more than 20 years.

State Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer, the Republican nominee for Platte County prosecuting attorney, said Gibson understands the office’s work and the standards Zahnd established. Luetkemeyer is unopposed in the Nov. 3 general election.

“Eric Zahnd built a Prosecuting Attorney’s Office defined by professionalism, integrity and an unwavering commitment to justice,” Luetkemeyer said. “I am very grateful for Mark’s willingness to lead during this difficult time and fully confident in his ability to provide the stability and continuity the office needs.”

Luetkemeyer said the office would honor Zahnd by continuing to support crime victims and law enforcement and providing effective representation to Platte County residents.

The Platte County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Thursday that Zahnd was the subject of a death investigation at the Platte County Courthouse.

The courthouse closed at approximately 2:15 p.m. Thursday, and members of the public and other nonessential personnel were cleared from the building. Capt. Jeff Shanks, the Sheriff’s Office’s public information officer, said there was no danger to the public.

No additional information about the circumstances of Zahnd’s death has been released.

Additional details about the leadership transition will be announced as they become available.