Jessica Aber was found dead in her Virginia home, with her family citing her epilepsy as a likely factor. Her tragic story highlights the intense personal sacrifices made by dedicated public servants who often struggle silently while fulfilling their professional responsibilities. What supports are available for public servants dealing with serious health conditions while fulfilling demanding roles?
A Dedicated Prosecutor’s Final Chapter
Jessica Aber, 43, a U.S. attorney appointed by Biden in 2021, was discovered dead in her Virginia home, shocking the legal community and those who knew her. Her family revealed that Aber had battled epilepsy, which likely contributed to her passing that officials are currently investigating as natural causes pending a ruling from the Virginia Chief Medical Examiner.
Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP) is a rare but significant risk for those with the disorder, often occurring during sleep when seizures can lead to fatal asphyxiation or heart problems. Aber’s resignation from her prestigious position came on January 20, 2024—the same day President Trump took office—a common practice for politically appointed U.S. attorneys during administration transitions.
Attorney Jessica Aber, who was appointed by Biden to prosecute the Eastern District of Virginia, died suddenly at home. Jessica Aber worked in the areas of cybercrime and Covid-19 fraud. She announced her resignation three days before Trump took office as president. pic.twitter.com/TD81IsglYn
— AugustinBrian🇺🇸 (@AugustinBrian3) March 23, 2025
A Legacy of Legal Excellence
During her tenure, Aber led a team of 300 lawyers and staff, handling some of the nation’s most sensitive cases, including investigations into CIA leaks and Russia-tied illegal activities. U.S. District Judge M. Hannah Lauck praised her former clerk, saying, “Jess was brilliant, but far more important was her sense for justice, her humanity, and her ability to change the world in a positive way even during her brief time with us.”
Colleagues remember Aber not just for her legal acumen but for her leadership qualities and mentorship abilities. “She was unmatched as a leader, mentor, and prosecutor,” stated Erik S. Siebert, highlighting the profound impact she had on those who worked alongside her throughout her career.
Jessica Aber. pic.twitter.com/MvKf6xbOxu
— mrredpillz jokaqarmy (@JOKAQARMY1) March 26, 2025
Public Service and Personal Sacrifice
In her resignation letter, Aber expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and pride in her collaborative work with law enforcement partners. Her acknowledgment of the political nature of her position demonstrated her understanding of government service traditions despite her personal health challenges that remained largely private until after her death.
Aber’s family has requested privacy during their time of grieving as they await more detailed information from medical examiners. Judge Lauck’s sentiment captures the depth of the loss felt by many: “My clerk family has lost its rock, and I have lost a friend. She was a gold soul and I am proud to have known her.”