The FBI is leading a coordinated federal review into multiple cases involving scientists and staff members who worked at high-security U.S. research facilities, including organizations connected to nuclear and space technology programs.

According to officials cited in reports, the inquiry involves at least 10 individuals associated with institutions such as NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory and Los Alamos National Laboratory. The cases span several years and include disappearances, unexplained deaths, and confirmed homicides.

The FBI confirmed it is “spearheading the effort” alongside the Department of Energy, the Department of War, and state and local law enforcement agencies. Officials say the goal is to determine whether any patterns or connections exist between the incidents.

The investigation has drawn heightened attention following public comments from President Donald Trump, who described the situation as “pretty serious stuff” and said the administration is monitoring developments. He also noted that many of those involved were “very important people,” while expressing hope that the cases are unrelated.

Among the cases receiving scrutiny is the disappearance of retired Air Force Maj. Gen. William Neil McCasland in New Mexico earlier this year. McCasland previously led the Air Force Research Laboratory and reportedly went missing after leaving his residence without personal devices.

Other incidents include the disappearance of a NASA-affiliated engineer during a hiking trip in California, as well as multiple deaths involving researchers in Massachusetts and California. Some cases have established explanations, while others remain unresolved.

Officials familiar with the investigation have cautioned that no verified link has been identified between the incidents. They also point to the size and geographic spread of the federal scientific workforce as a factor that complicates pattern analysis.

At the same time, some lawmakers have raised concerns about possible foreign intelligence interest in U.S. scientific personnel working on sensitive national security programs. Rep. Eric Burlison, R-Mo., said he would not be surprised if foreign actors were involved, though no evidence has been publicly presented to support that claim.

The House Oversight Committee has also opened its own inquiry and is seeking briefings from federal agencies. Meanwhile, NASA has stated there is currently no evidence indicating a national security threat connected to the cases.

Federal officials say the investigation remains ongoing, with agencies emphasizing that they are working to determine whether the incidents are unrelated tragedies or part of a broader, coordinated concern.