Jessica Aber, the former U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, was found dead Saturday morning at a home in Alexandria, authorities confirmed. She was 43.
Officers with the Alexandria Police Department were dispatched to the residence at 9:18 a.m. following a report of an unresponsive woman. Upon arrival, they discovered Aber deceased at the scene. It has not been confirmed whether the residence belonged to Aber or who placed the emergency call.
The cause of death is currently under investigation and will be determined by the Virginia medical examiner’s office. Police issued a brief statement noting that, “as a matter of protocol, an investigation is underway surrounding the circumstances of her death.”
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Aber, a Virginia native, had a distinguished legal career in both private practice and federal prosecution. She was nominated by then-President Joe Biden in August 2021 and unanimously confirmed by the Senate to serve as U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. She led the department until January 2025, stepping down upon the inauguration of President Donald Trump’s second term.
Her death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, political leaders, and legal professionals.
“We are heartbroken beyond words to learn of the passing of our friend and former colleague, U.S. Attorney Jessica Aber,” said Erik Siebert, her successor in the role. “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.”
Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares also praised Aber’s legacy, particularly her role in Ceasefire Virginia, a statewide initiative aimed at reducing violent crime.
“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,” Miyares wrote on social media.
US Attorney General Pam Bondi added her condolences, calling Aber’s death “deeply tragic” and offering “hearts and prayers” to her family and friends.
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“The loss of Jessica Aber, former U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, is deeply tragic. Our hearts and prayers go out to her family and friends during this profoundly difficult time,” said Bondi.
Aber began her federal service in 2009 with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of Virginia, where she served as Assistant U.S. Attorney and later Deputy Chief of the Criminal Division. As U.S. Attorney, she oversaw a team of approximately 300 personnel in one of the country’s most prominent federal districts, covering nearly six million residents.
She was a graduate of the University of Richmond and earned her law degree from William & Mary Law School in 2006.
Officials have not indicated whether foul play is suspected. The Alexandria Police Department has not released further details but said updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
Aber’s death leaves a lasting impact on Virginia’s legal and law enforcement community, with many remembering her not only for her professional accomplishments but for her personal warmth and unwavering commitment to public service.
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