Jessica Aber, a former U.S. attorney nominated by former President Joe Biden who was found dead at the age of 43 by police over the weekend in Virginia, had been experiencing health issues for years, Aber’s family said on Wednesday.
“It is with tremendous sorrow that we acknowledge the sudden passing of our beloved Jessica (Jess) Aber, who died in her sleep on Saturday, March 22,” Aber’s family said in a statement, per CBS News reporter Scott MacFarlane.
“Jess suffered from epilepsy and epileptic seizures for many years and on Tuesday, March 25, Alexandria (Virginia) Police said in a statement that they believe her death was the result of natural causes,” they added.
The Alexandria Police Department did provide an update on the investigation of Aber’s death on Tuesday.
“At this time, detectives have found no evidence suggesting that her death was caused by anything other than natural causes,” said police, who added that the case would remain open until the Officer of the Chief Medical Examiner returns “a final ruling on the cause and manner of death.”
In their statement, Aber’s family said they expect more information from the medical examiner in the coming weeks.
“Our family is in shock and grieving deeply and we respectfully request privacy as we attempt to navigate through our unspeakable loss,” Aber’s family said.
Aber served more than three years as U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. She had been nominated for the role by Biden in August of 2021 and was confirmed by the Senate in October of that year. She resigned on January 20, just as President Donald Trump began his second term.
Various officials released statements in response to Aber’s death.
“The loss of Jessica Aber, former U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, is deeply tragic. Our hearts and prayers go out to her family and friends during this profoundly difficult time,” said Attorney General Pam Bondi.
Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA) said in a post on X, “My prayers are with Jessica Aber’s loved ones. Jessica was an exceptional public servant who dedicated her life to serving her fellow Virginians. She will be deeply missed.”
