US Congress Demands FBI Investigation Into Disappearance of 11 Nuclear Scientists With Security Clearances

Gate News message, April 20 — US lawmakers are demanding an investigation into the disappearance of 11 nuclear scientists with high-level security clearances and ties to NASA, nuclear weapons laboratories, and secret aerospace projects. The Committee on Oversight and Government Reform has officially launched an inquiry, citing fears of a "grave threat" to national security. Republican Chairman James Comer warned that the string of cases, which began in 2023, may represent more than tragic accidents and highlighted a "possible sinister connection" between them.

Notable cases include retired Air Force General William Neil McCasland, who vanished on February 28 after leaving his New Mexico home without his phone, glasses, or wearable technology, carrying only a pistol. His wife told emergency services he appeared to be trying "not to be found." Steven Garcia, a 48-year-old contractor who makes 80% of non-nuclear components for the US nuclear arsenal, similarly disappeared on foot with only a handgun. Monica Jacinto Reza, a 60-year-old NASA director working on "space-age metal," vanished while hiking in California in June 2025. Others missing include Anthony Chavez and Melissa Casias, both linked to Los Alamos National Laboratory.

President Donald Trump confirmed he was briefed on the crisis last week and stated answers could come within days. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed the FBI is now "holistically" reviewing the cases. However, the Department of War reportedly claimed "there are no active national security investigations" into the missing persons—a statement that drew criticism from Congress. Lawmakers have demanded a full briefing on the matter by April 27.