Jessica D. Aber, former U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, was found dead at her home in Alexandria, Virginia, on Saturday, March 22, 2025. She was just 43 years old. The Alexandria Police Department (APD) responded to a call regarding an unresponsive woman at approximately 9:18 a.m. on Beverly Drive, where they discovered Aber deceased. An investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death is currently underway, and the cause of death will be determined by the Virginia Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.
Aber's career in law was marked by significant milestones. She began her tenure at the U.S. Attorney’s office in 2009 as an assistant U.S. attorney, where she garnered a reputation for her work in prosecuting financial fraud, public corruption, violent crime, and cases involving child exploitation. In 2021, Aber was nominated for the role of U.S. Attorney by former President Joe Biden, receiving unanimous Senate confirmation. She led a staff of approximately 300 prosecutors and support personnel across Virginia's significant federal prosecutor's office, spanning four locations in Alexandria, Richmond, Norfolk, and Newport News, serving over six million residents.
Her impact on the community and professional legacy was commendably recognized by colleagues and leaders in the field. Current U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, Erik Siebert, expressed profound sorrow over her passing, stating, "We are heartbroken beyond words to learn of the passing of our friend and former colleague, U.S. Attorney Jessica Aber. She was unmatched as a leader, mentor, and prosecutor, and she is simply irreplaceable as a human being." Siebert noted that each individual in the Eastern District of Virginia will strive to emulate her standard in seeking justice.
Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares also shared his grief, saying, "I am saddened to learn of the passing of Jessica Aber, whose career of public service included U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia and whose work with Ceasefire Virginia saved more lives than we may ever realize." His comments highlight Aber's dedication to public safety and her impactful initiatives during her career.
Before her appointment as U.S. Attorney, Aber held a position from 2015 to 2016 as counsel to the assistant attorney general for the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division and served as deputy chief of the criminal division at the EDVA. Her notable legal acumen was backed by a law degree from William & Mary Law School, which she obtained in 2006, after previously earning her undergraduate degree from the University of Richmond in 2003.
Aber's resignation in January 2025 coincided with the inauguration of President Donald Trump, marking a significant transition in her career and the U.S. Attorney's office. Her role was respected and influential, managing major national security and high-profile white-collar crime cases.
The investigation into Aber's sudden death is ongoing, and the Alexandria Police Department has assured that there will be due diligence in understanding the circumstances surrounding her passing. For now, the legal community, which has lost a remarkable individual, remembers Aber for her immense contributions and unwavering dedication to justice and public service.
Officials, colleagues, and members of the community continue to reflect on Aber's passion for her work and her positive influence across numerous cases, describing her as someone who was a shining example of leadership in the public sector. As the legal community mourns, Aber's legacy will surely persist as a guiding light for future generations of lawyers and public servants.
