Jessica Aber, an esteemed top federal prosecutor known for her role as the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, tragically passed away in her sleep on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at the young age of 43. Aber, who had resigned from her position just two months prior, had a decorated career that spanned across various high-profile cases, ranging from espionage and corporate crime to public corruption and terrorism.
Aber's sudden death has cast a spotlight on her private battle with epilepsy, a condition that her family and close associates were aware of, but which remained largely unknown to the public. Preliminary reports from the Washington DC police have indicated natural causes as a likely explanation for her untimely death, although the investigation by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner of Virginia is ongoing, with more detailed findings expected in the coming weeks.
The legal community and the nation have been left to ponder the significant impact of Aber's work, particularly in her capacity as one of the few women to ever lead the Eastern District of Virginia, a jurisdiction of critical national importance. Her office's jurisdiction covered key federal territories, including the Pentagon, Langley, the Port of Norfolk, and the federal power centers in Richmond, handling some of the nation's most sensitive cases.
Aber's professional journey was marked by her fearless pursuit of justice, overseeing investigations into terrorism, espionage, and corporate crime. Notably, she played a crucial role in the investigation of former CIA analyst Asif Rahman, who pleaded guilty to leaking sensitive information concerning Israel’s military strategies, and spearheaded several probes into Russia-linked illegal activities.
Her decision to step down following President Donald Trump's return to the White House was a testament to her integrity and commitment to the rule of law, reflecting her anticipation of the new administration's expectations for her resignation.
The Daily Mail highlighted the potential role of Aber's epilepsy in her death, citing medical experts and the Centers for Disease Control's warnings about Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP). SUDEP is a rare but significant risk for those with the disorder, often occurring during sleep, mirroring the circumstances of Aber's passing.
Jessica Aber's legacy as a dedicated public servant and legal mind will undoubtedly continue to influence the Eastern District of Virginia and beyond. Her untimely death is a somber reminder of the personal challenges faced by those in public service and the unpredictable nature of epilepsy.