President Donald Trump said investigators have found little evidence connecting a series of deaths and disappearances involving scientists and researchers tied to advanced aerospace, nuclear, and defense programs.
The cases have fueled widespread speculation online, with some suggesting the incidents could be linked. Earlier this month, Trump described the matter as “pretty serious stuff” and acknowledged that several of those involved were important figures. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt also confirmed that the federal government would review the cases.
Speaking to reporters, Trump sought to temper speculation, saying that while the number of affected scientists is concerning, it represents a very small fraction of the nation’s scientific workforce. He noted that investigators have found different explanations in several cases, including illness, suicide, and other individual circumstances. “So far, we’re finding that there’s not much of a connection,” Trump said, adding that the administration would continue to provide updates.
Meanwhile, Rep. Eric Burlison of Missouri said he plans to continue investigating what he described as the deaths or disappearances of 13 scientists connected to nuclear and space research. He said he has pressed the FBI for answers regarding the 2024 death of former Air Force intelligence officer Matthew Sullivan but claimed the agency would neither confirm nor deny whether an investigation exists.
According to published reports, Sullivan died from an accidental drug overdose shortly after agreeing to testify before Congress regarding unidentified aerial phenomena. He previously served with the U.S. Air Force and later worked for several intelligence agencies.
Interest in the broader issue increased after retired Air Force Maj. Gen. William Neil McCasland was reported missing earlier this year. Since 2022, multiple scientists and researchers connected to organizations including NASA, national laboratories, and private aerospace companies have died or disappeared under varying circumstances.
The House Oversight Committee has requested briefings from the FBI, Department of Energy, Department of Defense, and NASA regarding these cases. Federal authorities, however, have not confirmed that the incidents are connected or that they resulted from any coordinated criminal activity.
