SB. Former U.S. Attorney Jessica Aber Remembered for Her Service and Dedication

The legal community in Virginia and across the United States is mourning the loss of Jessica Aber, the former United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia (EDVA). Aber was found deceased at her home in Alexandria, Virginia, on the morning of March 22, 2025. She was 43 years old.

According to the Alexandria Police Department, there is currently no evidence to suggest foul play, and preliminary information indicates that she may have died of natural causes. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will issue a final ruling on the cause and manner of death once their review is complete.

Discovery and Initial Investigation

Police officials stated that officers responded to a 9:18 a.m. call about an unresponsive woman at a residence on Beverly Drive, located in the Alexandria suburbs of Washington, D.C. Upon arrival, they found Aber deceased.

Detectives have emphasized that their investigation remains ongoing but have found no evidence pointing to criminal activity. A final determination will be made following the medical examiner’s report.

Distinguished Career in Public Service

Jessica Aber’s legal career was marked by dedication, professionalism, and significant accomplishments. A graduate of William & Mary Law School in 2006, she began her career in public service as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in 2009, working in the Eastern District of Virginia.

Over the years, Aber handled numerous high-profile cases, including those involving:

Financial fraud
Public corruption
Violent crime
Child exploitation

Her expertise and leadership earned her recognition within the Department of Justice, and in 2021 she was appointed U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. In this role, she oversaw more than 300 prosecutors and staff members, guiding one of the most active and respected U.S. Attorney’s Offices in the country.

Leadership and Impact

During her tenure, Aber’s office earned national recognition for prosecuting high-stakes cases, including:

CIA leaks involving national security concerns
Fraud cases involving Russian nationals operating in the United States

Her commitment to justice extended beyond the courtroom. Aber played a key role in Ceasefire Virginia, a violence prevention initiative aimed at reducing gun violence and saving lives.Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares noted that her work in this area “saved more lives than we may ever realize.”

Stepping Down and Later Life

Aber served as U.S. Attorney until January 2025, stepping down shortly after the inauguration of President Donald Trump. Her resignation marked the end of more than a decade of service to the Eastern District of Virginia, but her influence continued through the colleagues she mentored and the policies she helped shape.

Tributes from Colleagues and Officials

News of Aber’s passing has prompted an outpouring of condolences from legal professionals, public officials, and community members.

U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi called her passing “deeply tragic” and expressed condolences to her family and friends.

Her successor, U.S. Attorney Erik Siebert, described her as “unmatched as a leader, mentor, and prosecutor,” praising her legal skills and leadership qualities:

“Her professionalism, grace, and legal acumen set the standard. Though we are devastated by this loss, each of us in EDVA will look to her example and endeavor to live up to that standard.”

Attorney General Jason Miyares also acknowledged her significant contributions, particularly her commitment to community safety through Ceasefire Virginia.

Remembering Jessica Aber’s Legacy

Jessica Aber is remembered not only for her professional accomplishments but also for her character. Those who worked with her speak of her integrity, compassion, and unwavering dedication to justice.

Her leadership style emphasized mentorship, encouraging younger attorneys to approach each case with diligence and ethical responsibility. Many credit her with fostering a culture of excellence within the EDVA.

Aber’s work touched a wide range of legal areas, from high-profile national security prosecutions to local community initiatives. This versatility reflected her belief that every case — regardless of size or publicity — deserved careful attention and a fair resolution.

The Role of the Eastern District of Virginia

The Eastern District of Virginia is one of the most active U.S. Attorney’s Offices in the country, often referred to as the “Rocket Docket” for its swift handling of cases. Leading such an office requires exceptional skill, and Aber’s tenure was marked by efficiency and results.

Under her leadership, the EDVA maintained its reputation for professionalism and effectiveness, tackling cases that ranged from white-collar crime to organized criminal enterprises.

A Life of Service Cut Short

While the full circumstances of Aber’s passing are still under review, her death represents a significant loss for the legal community. She leaves behind a legacy of service, leadership, and dedication to the principles of justice.

Her commitment to both national security cases and local community programs demonstrated her belief in using the law as a tool for positive change.

Looking Ahead

The Alexandria Police Department will keep the investigation open until the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner releases its official findings. In the meantime, her colleagues, friends, and family continue to honor her memory.

Public service careers often demand long hours, intense focus, and unwavering commitment. Aber met these challenges with skill and grace, earning respect from peers and leaving a lasting impression on the people she worked alongside.

Final Thoughts

Jessica Aber’s career was a testament to the impact that dedicated public servants can have on their communities and their country. Whether prosecuting high-profile national cases or working on local initiatives to prevent violence, she approached her work with the same level of dedication and professionalism.

Her passing is a reminder of the importance of recognizing the contributions of those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to uphold justice and protect the public. As the legal community reflects on her career, one thing is certain: Jessica Aber’s influence will be felt for years to come.