US Investigates Deaths, Disappearances of Scientists Linked to Sensitive Programs

Rabat – US authorities are investigating a series of deaths and disappearances involving at least 12 scientists since 2022, many of whom had ties to nuclear or space research, including classified projects.

Members of Congress have raised concerns that these cases could pose a national security risk. Lawmakers on the House Oversight Committee have asked federal agencies, including the FBI and the Department of Energy, to examine whether there is any connection between the incidents. 

Some officials warned that foreign actors could be interested in targeting experts with access to sensitive knowledge. Despite these concerns, there is no confirmed evidence linking the cases.

Several incidents involve scientists connected to NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California. Michael Hicks and Frank Maiwald both died under unclear circumstances, with no public cause of death released. 

Monica Reza, a respected materials scientist, has been missing since June 2025 after going on a hike. Astrophysicist Carl Grillmair was shot and killed outside his home earlier this year. A suspect has been charged in his case, and authorities do not believe the killing was connected to his work.

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In New Mexico, four scientists have disappeared over the past year. Retired Air Force General William McCasland went missing during a hike. Police have said there is no sign of foul play. 

Two others, Melissa Casias and Anthony Chavez, who worked at Los Alamos National Laboratory, also vanished under unusual circumstances, leaving behind personal belongings. Another contractor, Steven Garcia, disappeared after leaving his home without essential items.

Other cases include the 2022 death of researcher Amy Eskridge, ruled a suicide, and the 2024 killing of MIT professor Nuno Loureiro, who was shot by a man later linked to another violent attack. Authorities have not found a motive in that case. 

A pharmaceutical researcher, Jason Thomas, was found dead in a Massachusetts lake after being missing for months. His family allegedly said he had been dealing with personal struggles.

Officials, including NASA, have said there is no indication of a broader threat. In several cases, families have reportedly rejected claims of conspiracy. Still, the number of incidents has fueled speculation online and drawn political attention.

Investigators are treating the cases separately for now, while federal agencies review whether any pattern exists.

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