Former United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, Jessica Aber, was found dead on the morning of March 22 in Alexandria, Virginia. She was 43 years old.
According to local police, officers responded to a call at approximately 9:18 a.m. regarding an unresponsive woman at a residence on Beverly Drive, a suburb of Washington, D.C. Upon arrival, they discovered Aber deceased inside the home. Authorities have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death.
Sources close to the investigation indicated that the cause of death appears to be natural, with no signs of foul play. A family friend told ABC News that authorities suspect her passing was due to a pre-existing medical condition. However, officials are still awaiting confirmation from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, which will determine the exact cause and manner of her death.
Aber served as the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia from October 2021 until January 2025, overseeing approximately 300 prosecutors and staff. Her tenure covered a broad range of federal prosecutions, including financial fraud, public corruption, violent crime, and child exploitation cases. She initially joined the office in 2009 as an assistant U.S. attorney and had a distinguished career in federal law enforcement.
She earned her law degree from William and Mary Law School in 2006 and remained deeply connected to Virginia throughout her life.
Following the news of her passing, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi issued a statement expressing her condolences, calling Aber’s death a tragic loss and extending sympathies to her family and friends. Erik Siebert, the current U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, also released a statement mourning her passing. He described Aber as an exceptional leader, mentor, and prosecutor, noting that her professionalism and legal expertise set a high standard.
Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares also shared his condolences, recognizing Aber’s dedication to public service and her work with Ceasefire Virginia, which aimed to reduce gun violence. He acknowledged the significant impact of her contributions, stating that her efforts likely saved more lives than could be measured.
