The sudden and mysterious death of former U.S. Attorney Jessica Aber, a Biden nominee who resigned after just a year in office, is raising serious questions about transparency in the justice system. Her body was discovered in an Alexandria, Virginia home, yet officials remain tight-lipped, conducting their investigation behind closed doors—leaving the public demanding answers.
Biden-Appointed Prosecutor Found Dead
Alexandria police were called to a residence at precisely 9:18 a.m. Saturday where they discovered the body of former Eastern District of Virginia U.S. Attorney Jessica Aber. The investigation remains active as authorities work to determine whether Aber lived at the location and who made the initial call to law enforcement.
While no official cause of death has been announced pending examination by Virginia’s medical examiner, a source connected to Aber’s family told CBS News her death might be related to a longstanding medical issue. Authorities have indicated they found no immediate evidence of foul play, following standard protocol for unexpected deaths of public officials.
A former federal prosecutor was found dead Saturday morning at a home in Alexandria, Virginia, authorities said. https://t.co/aceYMixLdP
— CBS News (@CBSNews) March 23, 2025
Aber served as U.S. Attorney from August 2021 until her resignation in January 2023 after being nominated by President Joe Biden and confirmed by the Senate. During her tenure, she managed approximately 300 staff members and oversaw significant cases including charges against Russian nationals and securing a guilty plea from Siemens Energy.
Distinguished Legal Career Cut Short
The Virginia native began her legal career in 2006 as a clerk in the Eastern District of Virginia after graduating from William & Mary Law School. She became an assistant U.S. attorney in 2009, steadily building a reputation for excellence in prosecution before eventually rising to the district’s top position.
Upon her resignation in 2023, Aber had planned to continue her legal career in the private sector after more than a decade of public service. Her work with Ceasefire Virginia earned praise from Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares, who highlighted her commitment to reducing violent crime across the commonwealth.
As U.S. Attorney, Aber managed a jurisdiction serving approximately six million residents, handling complex federal cases that impacted citizens across Virginia and beyond. Her leadership qualities and professional dedication earned respect from colleagues across political lines throughout her distinguished career.
Colleagues Express Profound Loss
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi released a statement acknowledging the tragedy of Aber’s death. Bondi’s office extended prayers to Aber’s family during what was described as a “profoundly difficult time.”
“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. We remain in awe of how much she accomplished in her all too brief time in this world.”
Erik Siebert, who succeeded Aber in office, described her impact on the district with emotional tribute to her character and contributions. The legal community has united in expressing condolences for a respected prosecutor whose career embodied dedication to justice and public service.
In her own words upon leaving office, Aber had described her service as “an honor beyond measure,” having dedicated her entire professional life to public service. The Alexandria Police Department continues investigating all circumstances surrounding her death while the Virginia medical examiner prepares to determine the official cause.
Sources:
Jessica Aber reportedly had ‘longstanding’ health issue: What we know about former attorney’s death
Promising, Young Former U.S. Attorney Found Dead In Her Home – Above the Law
Jessica Aber, former U.S. attorney in Virginia, found dead at 43
Former federal prosecutor found dead in Virginia home – CBS News