Two Navy aviators died when their EA-18G Growler jet crashed near Mount Rainier during a routine training mission Monday.
The aircraft went down in steep, heavily wooded terrain east of the mountain in Washington state. Federal investigators are working to determine the cause of the crash, which occurred during operations by Electronic Attack Squadron 130, based at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.
Who Were the Aviators
The Navy identified the crew members as Lt. Cmdr. Lyndsay P. Evans, 31, of Palmdale, California, and Lt. Serena N. Wileman, 31, of California. Evans, a Naval Flight Officer, participated in the first all-female flyover at Super Bowl LVII in 2023, honoring five decades of women in naval aviation.
Wileman, commissioned as a Naval Aviator in 2018, joined the squadron known as the “Zappers” three years later. She earned multiple military honors, including the Navy Unit Commendation Medal and Combat Action Ribbon during her service.
Search and Recovery Efforts
Wreckage was located a day after the crash at approximately 6,000 feet in difficult terrain. The challenging conditions prompted the Navy to transition from search-and-rescue operations to recovery efforts by Sunday.
Washington Gov. Jay Inslee authorized the National Guard to provide continuous security at the site. Navy teams have begun preparations for a long-term salvage operation as the investigation continues.
The Aircraft and Response
The EA-18G Growler is the Navy’s primary electronic warfare jet, valued at approximately $67 million. The aircraft arrived at Whidbey Island in 2008 and has been deployed across global operations.
Cmdr. Timothy Warburton, the squadron’s commanding officer, stated: “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the loss of two cherished Zappers. Our priority is supporting their families, our sailors, and the Growler community.”
U.S. Senator Patty Murray, who had met Evans during a previous base visit, described her as “a pioneering leader who broke barriers and made history.” Murray extended condolences to both families, noting that the aviators “paved the way for generations of women who will follow in their footsteps.”
This story has been updated. CNN’s military affairs team contributed to this report.
