On Saturday morning, the Alexandria Police Department reported the unfortunate death of Jessica Aber, the former U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia (EDVA). She was only 43 years old at the time of her passing. The exact cause and circumstances surrounding Aber’s death are currently under investigation and will be determined by The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner of Virginia, as stated by the Alexandria Police.
Authorities responded to a call concerning an unresponsive woman in the 900 block of Beverley Drive around 9:18 a.m. Upon arrival, they discovered Aber deceased. This incident has left many in the legal and local community in shock, as Aber had made significant contributions throughout her career.
Jessica Aber's career with the EDVA began in 2009 when she took on the role of an assistant U.S. attorney. Her dedication and expertise led her to serve on a detail assignment as counsel to the assistant attorney general for the Criminal Division of the Department of Justice from 2015 to 2016. Following this, she became the deputy chief of EDVA’s criminal division, showcasing her leadership abilities and commitment to justice.
In 2021, Aber was nominated to be U.S. Attorney by former President Joe Biden and received a unanimous confirmation from the Senate. However, she resigned two months ago when President Donald Trump took office, marking a significant transition in her professional journey.
As news of her passing spread, Aber’s former colleagues began to share heartfelt tributes, reflecting on her legacy. Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares expressed his sorrow on social media platform X, stating, “I am saddened to learn of the passing of Jessica Aber, whose career of public service included US Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia and whose work with Ceasefire Virginia saved more lives than we may ever realize.”
Current U.S. Attorney for EDVA, Erik S. Siebert, also honored Aber in a statement, describing her as “unmatched as a leader, mentor, and prosecutor.” He emphasized, “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. Her professionalism, grace, and legal acumen set the standard.”
Siebert further highlighted Aber’s deep connection to Virginia, noting that she was a “proud Virginian” who graduated from the University of Richmond and earned her J.D. from William & Mary Law School. “She loved EDVA and EDVA loved her back,” he said. “We remain committed to her life’s work, a commitment to seeking justice, as she would have wanted.”
Jessica Aber’s tragic passing is a significant loss to the legal community and the Eastern District of Virginia. Her dedication to public service and her unwavering commitment to justice will be remembered by many, and her legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of legal professionals.
