Former U.S. Attorney Jessica Aber dies at age 43: authorities
A tragic incident occurred in Virginia on Saturday morning, as former United States Attorney Jessica D. Aber was found dead, just two months after leaving her position. Aber, 43, had served as the U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia from 2021 to 2025, having been appointed by former President Joe Biden. The Alexandria Police Department (APD) confirmed Aber’s passing, stating that they received a call about an “unresponsive woman” at around 9:18 a.m. on Saturday. An investigation is currently underway to determine the cause and manner of her death.
Aber, a graduate of William & Mary Law School, led a team of approximately 300 prosecutors, civil litigators, and support staff across four divisions in Alexandria, Richmond, Norfolk, and Newport News during her tenure as U.S. attorney. In her resignation statement on January 20, Aber expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to lead the office and work with law enforcement partners to enforce the law and build community trust.
Her successor, U.S. Attorney Erik S. Siebert, paid tribute to Aber, describing her as an unmatched leader, mentor, and prosecutor. He expressed his deep sorrow at her passing, emphasizing her professionalism, grace, and legal acumen. Siebert stated that Aber’s legacy would continue to inspire those in the Eastern District of Virginia to uphold the standard of justice she set during her time in office.
Authorities are currently investigating Aber’s death, and the Department of Justice headquarters in Washington, D.C., where Aber had worked, mourns the loss of a dedicated public servant. As the legal community grapples with this tragic event, Aber’s commitment to seeking justice and her contributions to the field will be remembered and honored.
The sudden and untimely passing of Jessica D. Aber has left a void in the legal community, and her colleagues and peers will continue to carry on her legacy of service and dedication to the pursuit of justice. Our thoughts and condolences go out to her family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing and working with her.
