The legal world is still reeling from the sudden loss of Jessica Aber, a respected attorney who once served as the top federal prosecutor in Virginia.
Her death earlier this year came as a shock to many, but officials have now confirmed the cause.
Cause of Death Confirmed
According to the Medical Examiner’s Office, Aber, just 43 years old, passed away in March due to sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP).
The condition, though rare, remains one of the most serious risks faced by people living with epilepsy.
Authorities emphasized that her death was ruled as “natural.”
A Long Battle with Epilepsy
Aber’s family had previously shared that she had been living with epilepsy for many years.
They described how she struggled with seizures throughout her life, acknowledging that this lifelong condition ultimately led to her passing.
In a heartfelt statement, her family said they were in deep shock and requested privacy as they mourned an “unspeakable loss.”
Her Journey in the Justice Department
Jessica Aber’s professional journey was as remarkable as it was inspiring.
She steadily rose through the ranks of the Justice Department and, in 2021, President Joe Biden appointed her as the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia (EDVA).
She was one of the few women ever to hold the post, overseeing a district that includes Northern Virginia, the Pentagon, Langley, the Port of Norfolk, and Richmond—some of the country’s most high-stakes legal battlegrounds.
Leading High-Stakes Cases
During her tenure, Aber managed a team of nearly 300 attorneys and staff, guiding some of the most sensitive and high-profile cases in the nation.
Among them was the prosecution of former CIA analyst Asif Rahman, who admitted to leaking details of Israel’s plans to strike Iran.
She was also directly involved in investigations linked to Russian nationals and their illegal activities.
Stepping Down After Political Shift
Aber’s time as U.S. attorney came to a close on January 20, when Donald Trump began his second term in office.
Like many political appointees, she believed it was expected that she resign under the new administration.
Speaking at a crime briefing in Richmond shortly before leaving her post, she remarked, “It’s a political job.”
Words of Gratitude in Her Final Letter
In her resignation letter, Aber reflected on her service with gratitude.
She called her role as U.S. attorney “an honor beyond measure” and expressed appreciation to Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine, as well as President Biden and Attorney General Merrick Garland, for entrusting her with the responsibility.
She also praised the partnerships built with law enforcement at every level.
A Lasting Legacy
Though her career was cut short by tragedy, Jessica Aber leaves behind a legacy of leadership, dedication, and trailblazing service in one of the nation’s most influential federal districts.
Her passing is a sobering reminder of the hidden risks of epilepsy and the fragility of life, even for those who appear strongest in the public eye.
