A distinguished legal career comes to an unexpected end as Jessica D. Aber's death sends shockwaves through Virginia's legal community.
According to Fox News, the former U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia was found unresponsive at her residence on Saturday morning, with authorities launching an investigation into her death at age 43.
The Alexandria Police Department responded to a call about an unresponsive woman at approximately 9:18 a.m. on Saturday. While specific details about the circumstances remain limited, a family friend revealed to investigators that Aber's death was likely connected to an existing medical condition.
Aber's legal journey began after her graduation from William & Mary Law School in 2006. Her dedication and expertise in law enforcement led to her appointment as U.S. Attorney by President Joe Biden in 2021, where she served until January 20, 2025.
During her tenure, Aber managed a substantial team of approximately 300 professionals, including prosecutors, civil litigators, and support personnel. Her leadership extended across four divisions located in Alexandria, Richmond, Norfolk, and Newport News.
Upon her departure from office earlier this year, Aber expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to serve. She shared these words in her resignation statement:
I am deeply grateful to senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine and to President Biden for the opportunity to lead this office and to Attorney General Garland for his steadfast leadership. 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.
The news of Aber's passing has deeply affected her colleagues in the legal profession. Her successor, U.S. Attorney Erik S. Siebert, offered a heartfelt tribute to her legacy and character.
Siebert emphasized Aber's exceptional qualities as a leader and mentor, highlighting her profound impact on the Eastern District of Virginia. He praised her professionalism and legal expertise as setting the standard for others to follow.
The Alexandria Police Department has initiated a formal investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner of Virginia will conduct necessary examinations to determine the official cause and manner of death.
Aber's commitment to justice and public service left an indelible mark on Virginia's legal landscape. Her colleagues remember her as a proud Virginian who maintained strong connections to her home state throughout her career.
The Eastern District of Virginia office continues to honor her memory through their ongoing commitment to justice. Her influence extends beyond her professional achievements to the personal impact she had on those who worked alongside her.
The legal community's response to her passing reflects the deep respect she earned during her career. Her dedication to building trust between law enforcement and the community remains a cornerstone of her legacy.
Jessica D. Aber's unexpected passing at age 43 marks the end of a distinguished legal career that began at William & Mary Law School and culminated in her role as U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. The Alexandria Police Department is conducting a thorough investigation into her death, which occurred at her residence on Saturday morning. While preliminary information suggests her death may be related to a pre-existing medical condition, officials await the medical examiner's determination of the exact cause and manner of death.
