US probes disappearances of nuclear and aerospace scientists
White House confirms review after reports of missing and dead experts linked to sensitive defense and space programs
Washington (MNTV) — The administration of Donald Trump has signaled it is examining a series of unexplained disappearances and deaths involving American scientists connected to high-level nuclear and aerospace work.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said officials are taking the matter seriously following reports that at least ten individuals with access to classified research have either gone missing or died under unclear circumstances since 2024.
While she noted that discussions with relevant agencies were still ongoing, Leavitt indicated that the pattern has raised sufficient concern to justify a broader investigation.
Among the cases is Monica Jacinto Reza, a senior engineer associated with NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, who disappeared during a hiking trip in California in 2025.
Steven Garcia, a contractor working at a national security facility, was also reported missing later that year, while Anthony Chavez, a former researcher linked to Los Alamos National Laboratory, vanished under separate circumstances.
The list further includes retired US Air Force Major General William McCasland, who previously led advanced research operations and was reported missing in early 2026.
In addition to these disappearances, the deaths of several scientists tied to sensitive programs have added to the concern. Some, including researchers involved in advanced space missions, died without publicly disclosed causes, prompting questions about transparency and oversight.
The developments come at a time when US authorities are accelerating projects related to nuclear-powered space technologies and other strategic research areas, increasing the stakes around personnel security.
Lawmakers have begun pushing for a coordinated federal response. Representative Eric Burlison has called for the involvement of the FBI, pointing to the concentration of incidents among individuals working in critical national security fields.
Experts have also highlighted unusual patterns in several cases, noting that some of those who went missing left behind personal belongings such as phones and wallets, raising the possibility of targeted threats or security breaches within highly sensitive sectors.
Investigations into the cases remain ongoing, with officials yet to determine whether the incidents are connected.