Jessica Aber’s Sudden Passing Shocks the Legal Community
Jessica Aber, the former US Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, was found dead on the morning of March 23, 2025, at a home in Alexandria, Virginia. She was 43 years old. Law enforcement officials confirmed her passing, and an investigation is currently underway to determine the cause of death.
Circumstances Surrounding Her Death
According to the Alexandria Police Department, officers responded to a call at 9:18 a.m. regarding an unresponsive woman. Upon arrival, they discovered Aber deceased at the scene. It remains unclear whether the residence where she was found belonged to her, and authorities have not disclosed who initially contacted emergency services.
Officials have stated that an investigation is being conducted as per protocol. The Virginia medical examiner’s office will determine the cause of death, but no further details have been released as of now. The unexpected nature of her passing has left colleagues, friends, and the legal community in shock.
Who Was Jessica Aber?
Education and Early Career
Born and raised in Virginia, Jessica Aber graduated from the University of Richmond in 2003 and later earned her law degree from William & Mary Law School in 2006. Her legal career began as a law clerk for Judge M. Hannah Lauck, who later reflected on her brilliance, humanity, and unwavering commitment to justice.
Following her clerkship, Aber worked in the private sector at McGuireWoods LLP before joining the Department of Justice. She quickly built a reputation as a skilled prosecutor with a strong sense of duty and integrity.
Career in the US Attorney’s Office
In 2009, Aber joined the Eastern District of Virginia as an Assistant US Attorney, where she worked on cases involving financial fraud, public corruption, violent crime, and child exploitation. Her dedication and expertise led to her promotion as Deputy Chief of the Criminal Division.
From 2015 to 2016, she served as counsel to the Assistant Attorney General for the Criminal Division of the Department of Justice, where she played a crucial role in shaping policy and overseeing high-profile criminal investigations.
Appointment as US Attorney
In August 2021, President Joe Biden nominated Jessica Aber to serve as US Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. The Senate confirmed her unanimously, recognizing her extensive legal experience and dedication to public service. As the head of one of the nation’s most prominent federal districts, Aber oversaw approximately 300 employees across offices in Alexandria, Richmond, Norfolk, and Newport News.
During her tenure, she worked tirelessly on cases affecting a district of nearly six million residents. One of her most notable contributions was her involvement in Ceasefire Virginia, a 2022 initiative aimed at reducing violent crime through federal and local law enforcement collaboration. Her efforts in this program were widely praised for making communities safer.
Resignation and Life After Office
On January 17, 2025, Aber announced her resignation from the US Attorney’s Office after serving for over three years. In her farewell statement, she expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to lead and serve the Eastern District of Virginia.
“I’ve had the privilege of working alongside talented, hard-working public servants who manage matters affecting citizens here and across the world,” Aber said. “Concluding my service as US Attorney has been an honor beyond measure. I am proud of the work we have done with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to enforce the law and build community trust.”
Following her resignation, Aber planned to explore new professional and personal opportunities, though details about her post-government career were not widely publicized.
Investigation into Aber’s Death
The Alexandria Police Department is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding Aber’s sudden passing. Reports indicate that family members initially contacted the authorities after finding her unresponsive.
The Virginia Chief Medical Examiner’s Office is conducting an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. As of now, no foul play has been suspected, but officials have yet to confirm any further details.
Tributes Pour In for Jessica Aber
The news of Jessica Aber’s passing has elicited an outpouring of condolences from colleagues, public officials, and members of the legal community.
Erik S. Siebert, her successor as US Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, expressed deep sorrow: “We are heartbroken beyond words to learn of the passing of our friend and former colleague, Jessica Aber. Her contributions to the justice system and her unwavering commitment to public service will never be forgotten.”
Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares highlighted Aber’s critical role in crime prevention efforts: “Jessica’s work with Ceasefire Virginia saved more lives than we may ever realize. Her dedication to justice and public safety was remarkable.”
Former US District Judge M. Hannah Lauck, who mentored Aber early in her career, described her as “brilliant, but far more important was her sense of justice, her humanity, and her ability to change the world in a positive way.”
Attorney General Pamela Bondi also shared her condolences, saying, “The loss of Jessica Aber is deeply tragic. Our hearts and prayers go out to her family and friends during this profoundly difficult time.”
Remembering Jessica Aber’s Legacy
Jessica Aber’s career was defined by her commitment to upholding the law, serving the public, and making a difference in communities across Virginia. Her leadership in tackling financial fraud, violent crime, and corruption earned her widespread respect in the legal field.
As the investigation into her untimely passing continues, her colleagues, friends, and loved ones remember her not only for her legal expertise but for her kindness, dedication, and the positive impact she had on so many lives.
Her legacy as a devoted public servant will endure, and she will be deeply missed by those who had the privilege of working alongside her.