FBI reviews deaths of scientists at top US labs

On April 17-19, 2026, the White House announced that the Trump administration is working with the FBI and other relevant agencies to conduct a holistic review of approximately 10-11 cases involving scientists, researchers and personnel with ties to high-security facilities, including NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) and the Los Alamos National Laboratory. These individuals have died or been reported missing at various points since 2023-2024, with several cases occurring in 2025 and early 2026.

The review aims to identify any potential commonalities between the cases and determine whether there are links that warrant further investigation. It includes coordination with the Department of Energy and other agencies responsible for national security-related research. The affected individuals had varying levels of involvement in projects connected to aerospace, nuclear research, materials science and advanced propulsion technologies.

Background on the facilities and personnel

Los Alamos National Laboratory has long been central to the United States' nuclear weapons and energy programs. NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory manages robotic deep-space missions and advanced aerospace technologies. Some of the reviewed cases involve current or former employees/contractors from these sites, as well as individuals linked to related defense and space programs (including retired military personnel).

The incidents span multiple years and include both deaths (some under unclear circumstances, others with identified causes such as shooting) and disappearances. Not all cases occurred recently, and some individuals were not active scientists at the time of the event (e.g., retirees or administrative staff with security clearances). Examples of named cases in public reporting include:

• Personnel connected to JPL (e.g., Monica Jacinto Reza - missing since June 2025; Frank Maiwald - died July 2024; Michael David Hicks - died 2023)
• Personnel connected to Los Alamos (e.g., Melissa Casias - missing since June 2025; Anthony „Tony” Chavez - missing since May 2025)

President Trump described the situation as “pretty serious stuff” and stated he hopes the cases prove to be coincidence, while noting that answers may come within the next week and a half.

Security and investigative focus

Federal authorities are examining whether the cases are isolated or share any common factors. Public speculation has included theories involving unidentified flying objects (UFOs), but officials have emphasized a focus on conventional explanations, such as possible espionage, security lapses, personal circumstances or unrelated coincidences. No specific suspects or foreign entities have been publicly named.

The FBI is collaborating with the Department of Energy and other agencies to assess any potential compromise of technical data or intellectual property. The review does not constitute a formal criminal investigation into a single coordinated event, but rather a broader examination of possible patterns.

Political and public implications

The White House has stressed that the safety of personnel working on sensitive national security programs is a priority. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that “no stone will be unturned” and that updates will be provided as appropriate.

Public interest is significant due to the sensitive nature of the laboratories involved and the classified work some individuals were associated with. However, the FBI and administration officials have cautioned against unfounded speculation, noting that the primary objectives are to understand the circumstances of each case and locate any missing individuals.

As of April 19, 2026, the review is ongoing, and no conclusive findings have been released.