Former U.S. Attorney Jessica Aber Dies at 43, Family Cites Epilepsy

Jessica Aber Death Raises Questions, But Police Suggest Natural Causes

Jessica Aber, the former U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, was found dead at her home in Alexandria over the weekend. She was just 43. According to police statements and her family, the cause of death appears to be natural—and may be linked to her known epilepsy diagnosis.

The Alexandria Police Department responded to a 911 call on Saturday morning regarding an unresponsive woman. The victim was later identified as Jessica Aber. A statement from police confirmed that “detectives have found no evidence suggesting that her death was caused by anything other than natural causes.”

Family Confirms Epilepsy, a Potential Factor in Jessica Aber’s Death

In statements to major outlets including ABC News and NBC News, Aber’s family revealed that she had epilepsy—a neurological condition that causes unprovoked seizures. The Epilepsy Foundation notes that complications from seizures can include sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP), particularly during sleep.

“At this time, detectives have found no evidence suggesting that her death was caused by anything other than natural causes.”

Prominent Legal Career in Public Service

Aber began her career in public service in 2009, when she joined the Eastern District of Virginia as an assistant U.S. attorney. Between 2015 and 2016, she served as counsel to the assistant attorney general in the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division. Her reputation as a dedicated public servant was well established long before she rose to lead the office.

In 2021, she was nominated for U.S. attorney by President Joe Biden and was unanimously confirmed by the U.S. Senate—an increasingly rare feat in today’s polarized political landscape. She stepped down from the position in January following the change in presidential administrations.

Medical Examiner’s Final Report Still Pending

Though foul play has been ruled out, the case remains open until the medical examiner returns a conclusive ruling. Authorities have emphasized that this is standard protocol in cases of unattended deaths. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will ultimately determine the exact cause and manner of death.

“We urge the public to respect the privacy of Ms. Aber’s family during this time of loss,” the Alexandria Police Department said in its statement.

A Community in Mourning

Aber’s unexpected death has left a deep impact on the legal community. Tributes have poured in from colleagues and former staff. Her legacy includes significant work prosecuting complex criminal cases, advocating for justice, and mentoring rising attorneys within the Department of Justice. Many remembered her for her integrity, work ethic, and the humanity she brought to an often bureaucratic institution.

The outpouring of respect underscores the suddenness of the loss. While speculation continues online, officials are urging the public to allow the investigation to proceed and to avoid misinformation. The family, meanwhile, is navigating an unimaginable loss and has asked for privacy.

Conclusion: A Life Cut Short, a Legacy Remembered

Jessica Aber’s death marks a tragic moment for the legal and political community. While we await the final medical findings, the current evidence points toward a death by natural causes, potentially linked to her epilepsy. The investigation remains ongoing, but Aber’s legacy as a public servant and legal mind is already cemented.

As public attention shifts toward the official autopsy report, it’s worth pausing to honor a woman who dedicated her career to the pursuit of justice. Jessica Aber is gone too soon—but not forgotten.