FBI Investigates 13 Suspicious Deaths and Disappearances of US Scientists Since 2022

The FBI is conducting a multi-agency investigation into the suspicious deaths and disappearances of at least 13 U.S. scientists working on sensitive nuclear, aerospace, and space technology projects since 2022, according to reports from multiple sources including El Financiero and NDTV. This probe was intensified after the July 22, 2025 death of NASA nuclear propulsion scientist Joshua LeBlanc, found charred inside a crashed Tesla near Huntsville, Alabama, as detailed by Zero Hedge. The incidents involve personnel from agencies like NASA, the Department of Energy, and the Department of Defense.

Congressional concern has increased, with members of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform requesting information from federal agencies and raising alarms about a possible coordinated threat or conspiracy. Republicans in the House have linked nearly a dozen cases involving scientists connected to nuclear secrets and advanced propulsion systems, as reported by Ars Technica and Fortune. The incidents have prompted President Trump to describe the situation as serious and promise forthcoming answers, according to El Financiero and Scientific American.

The FBI’s investigation includes not only deaths but also disappearances of scientists linked to prominent institutions such as Caltech, NASA, and private aerospace companies Blue Origin and SpaceX, according to Lopez Doriga Digital and Fortune. Agencies are working closely to determine if these cases share a common pattern or indicate a targeted effort to sabotage U.S. technological innovation and national security. The probe also seeks to understand the broader implications for security protocols concerning sensitive research personnel.

Officials have highlighted the complexity and secrecy surrounding these cases, emphasizing the potential impact on national defense capabilities and scientific advancements. The involvement of multiple high-profile government and private sector entities shows the breadth of concern. The FBI's coordination with federal agencies underscores the urgency of identifying threats to protect critical technological assets from further disruption.

Moving forward, the investigation is expected to focus on uncovering the motives behind these deaths and disappearances and whether foreign intelligence or domestic actors are involved. Lawmakers and security experts will be watching for forthcoming intelligence assessments and policy responses that could influence safeguards for scientists engaged in sensitive research. The outcome of this probe may affect how the U.S. manages security around nuclear and space technology development in the coming years.