The death of former U.S. attorney Jessica D. Aber, found in her Virginia home on March 22, 2025, is believed to be due to natural causes, according to the Alexandria Police Department. Aber, 43, was discovered at around 9:20 a.m. after police responded to a call about an unresponsive individual. Since then, officials have emphasized that there is no evidence suggesting foul play.
In a statement released on March 25, 2025, the police said, "At this time, detectives have found no evidence suggesting that her death was caused by anything other than natural causes." They also urged the public to respect the privacy of Aber's family during this difficult time.
Aber served as the U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia from August 2021 until her resignation on January 20, 2025, coinciding with President Donald Trump’s return to the White House. Her resignation letter expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the office, stating, "Concluding my service to the District as its U.S. Attorney has been an honor beyond measure." She thanked senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine, as well as Attorney General Merrick Garland, for their support during her tenure.
During her time in office, Aber was involved in high-profile cases that included investigations into alleged war crimes, intelligence leaks, and international terrorism. Notably, she oversaw the prosecution of former CIA analyst Asif Rahman, who pleaded guilty to leaking classified documents regarding an Israeli military operation. Aber criticized Rahman's actions as a "violation of his oath, his responsibility, and the law," stating that the leak "placed lives at risk, undermined U.S. foreign relations, and compromised our ability to collect vital intelligence in the future."
Despite the initial shock surrounding her death, which sparked various conspiracy theories on social media due to the sensitive nature of her work, friends and associates have indicated that Aber had been dealing with a serious medical condition prior to her passing. A family friend mentioned to NBC News that law enforcement believed her death was related to this longstanding medical issue.
Two friends of Aber told The Washington Post that she had a serious medical condition, although they did not disclose specifics for privacy reasons. This information, along with statements from former Justice Department officials, has helped quell speculation about potential foul play.
The Alexandria Police Department confirmed that the investigation into Aber's death is ongoing and will remain open until the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (OCME) provides a final ruling on the cause and manner of death. As of March 24, 2025, the medical examiner’s office had not yet conducted an examination of Aber.
Colleagues and friends have expressed their sorrow over Aber's passing. Erik S. Siebert, the current U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, stated, "She was unmatched as a leader, mentor, and prosecutor, and she is simply irreplaceable as a human being." He expressed heartbreak over her death, highlighting her accomplishments and the standard she set for others in the field.
Aber’s legal career began in 2009 as an assistant U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, where she quickly rose through the ranks. She became deputy chief of the criminal division before being nominated by President Biden to lead the district. Her tenure was marked by significant legal victories, including securing convictions related to serious criminal activities.
In 2019, Aber was recognized with the Department of Justice's Assistant Attorney General’s Award for Exceptional Service, underscoring her commitment to justice and her exemplary performance in her role.
As the investigation continues, the community remembers Aber not just for her professional achievements but also for her dedication to public service and the impact she had on the lives of those she worked with. Her legacy as a committed public servant will likely endure, as colleagues vow to honor her example in their ongoing work.
As the Alexandria Police Department continues its investigation, they have reiterated the importance of allowing the medical examiner’s office to conduct its work without interference. The outcome of this investigation will provide closure to Aber's family and colleagues, who are mourning the loss of a respected leader in the legal community.
In the wake of her passing, many are reflecting on Aber's contributions to the justice system and the profound impact she had during her tenure as U.S. attorney. Her commitment to justice and her role in tackling significant cases will be remembered by those who knew her and by the broader legal community.
