Jessica Aber: Biden-nominated former US Attorney, found dead at 43
Former U.S. Attorney Jessica Aber was discovered dead at a residence in Alexandria, Virginia, on Saturday morning, just two months after stepping down from her role.
Authorities from the Alexandria Police Department responded to a call at 9:18 a.m. about an unresponsive woman. Upon arrival, officers found 43-year-old Aber deceased at the scene. Police did not confirm if the home belonged to Aber or identify who had contacted them.
The cause of death is pending examination by the Virginia medical examiner's office, and officials have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her passing.
Aber served as the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia from 2021 until her resignation in January 2025. Appointed by President Joe Biden, she managed a team of around 300 legal professionals across Alexandria, Richmond, Norfolk, and Newport News.
In her farewell statement, Aber expressed deep gratitude to Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine, President Biden, and Attorney General Merrick Garland. She described her tenure as a U.S. attorney as "an honor beyond measure" and took pride in her collaborations with law enforcement to uphold justice and foster community trust.
Following news of her passing, her successor, U.S. Attorney Erik S. Siebert, expressed profound sorrow. “Jessica was a remarkable leader, mentor, and prosecutor who left an irreplaceable impact," Siebert said. "Her dedication to justice and her compassion for others set an unmatched standard." He added that the team at the Eastern District of Virginia would continue to honor her legacy by striving to uphold those high standards.
Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares paid tribute to Aber, acknowledging her contributions to Ceasefire Virginia, a statewide initiative launched in 2022 to reduce violent crime. Miyares noted that Aber's efforts likely saved many lives.
Before becoming a U.S. attorney, Aber worked in private practice and joined the Eastern District of Virginia in 2009, where she served in various roles, including assistant U.S. attorney and deputy chief of the criminal division.
Aber earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Richmond and graduated from William & Mary Law School in 2006. Her career was marked by her commitment to justice, public service, and improving community safety.