A shocking discovery at a residential property in Alexandria, Virginia, has left the legal community reeling as authorities investigate the death of a prominent federal prosecutor.
According to the New York Post, Jessica Aber, 43, the former U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia who stepped down from her position in January, was found dead at her home on Saturday morning.
Alexandria Police Department officers responded to a call about an unresponsive woman at Aber's residence just before 9:20 a.m. The circumstances surrounding her death remain under investigation, with the Virginia medical examiner's office set to determine the official cause.
Aber's legal career began in 2009 when she joined the Eastern District of Virginia as an assistant U.S. attorney. Her dedication and expertise in federal prosecution led to her advancement within the Department of Justice.
From 2015 to 2016, she served as counsel to the assistant attorney general for the Criminal Division of the Department of Justice, demonstrating her capabilities in handling complex legal matters. Her appointment as U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia in 2021 marked a significant milestone in her career.
President Biden nominated Aber for the prestigious position, and she received unanimous confirmation from the Senate. The appointment highlighted her reputation for excellence in legal practice and leadership abilities.
The current U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, Erik Siebert, expressed deep sorrow over Aber's passing. His statement reflected the profound impact she had on her colleagues and the legal profession:
We are heartbroken beyond words to learn of the passing of our friend and former colleague, US Attorney Jessica Aber. She was unmatched as a leader, mentor, and prosecutor, and she is simply irreplaceable as a human being.
Aber's tenure as U.S. Attorney came to an end in January 2025, following President Trump's assumption of office. Her resignation marked the conclusion of a remarkable chapter in the Eastern District of Virginia's leadership.
Local law enforcement officials are carefully examining the circumstances surrounding Aber's death. The Alexandria Police Department has maintained discretion regarding the details of their investigation.
The medical examiner's findings will play a crucial role in understanding the cause of death. Authorities have not released additional information about the conditions under which Aber was found.
The investigation continues as colleagues, friends, and the legal community await answers about this unexpected loss.
Jessica Aber, the former U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, was discovered deceased at her Alexandria residence on Saturday morning at the age of 43. Local authorities are conducting an investigation into her death while the Virginia medical examiner's office works to determine the cause.
The accomplished federal prosecutor served from 2021 until January 2025, earning recognition for her leadership and mentorship within the legal community. Her unexpected passing has left a void in the Eastern District of Virginia's legal circles, where she had built a distinguished career spanning over a decade.
