The legal community is mourning the sudden and tragic loss of Jessica Aber, the former U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, who was found dead in her Alexandria home on March 22, 2025, at the age of 43. The Virginia medical examiner’s office is currently investigating the cause of her death, while colleagues and loved ones express their grief over her untimely demise.
Jessica Aber was appointed by President Joe Biden in 2021 and served as U.S. Attorney until her resignation in January 2025. During her time in office, Aber handled several high-profile cases, most notably the prosecution of former CIA analyst Asif Rahman. Rahman pleaded guilty to leaking classified documents related to Israel’s planned military strike on Iran, a breach that raised severe concerns over national security and diplomatic relations.
Before taking on her role as U.S. Attorney, Aber began her career as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Eastern District of Virginia in 2009. She also served as counsel to the assistant attorney general for the Criminal Division from 2015 to 2016. Her distinguished career earned her the respect and admiration of colleagues and peers alike.
Expressing his sorrow over the loss, current U.S. Attorney Erik S. Siebert described Aber as “a remarkable leader, mentor, and prosecutor,” stating that her dedication to justice was unmatched. Attorney General Pamela Bondi also conveyed her condolences to Aber’s family and friends, acknowledging her invaluable contributions to the justice system.
Jessica Aber’s dedication to her work left a lasting impact on the legal landscape, and her sudden passing has left many devastated. As investigations into her death continue, the legal community reflects on her legacy and mourns the loss of an exceptional legal mind who committed her career to the pursuit of justice.
