Federal investigators are working to determine what caused a Navy aircraft to crash near Mount Rainier, claiming the lives of two highly decorated aviators. The EA-18G Growler, a $67 million electronic warfare jet, went down during a routine training mission last week in a forested area east of the mountain, leaving the Navy community and the nation in mourning.
The fallen crew members have been identified as Lt. Cmdr. Lyndsay P. Evans, 31, and Lt. Serena N. Wileman, 31, both from California. They were assigned to Electronic Attack Squadron 130 (VAQ-130), the “Zappers,” based at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island in Washington.
The two aviators were conducting a low-altitude training flight when radar contact was lost late Friday morning. A search-and-rescue mission involving Navy aircraft, local authorities, and National Park Service rangers began immediately. The wreckage was located the following afternoon at an elevation of about 6,000 feet, scattered across steep, mountainous terrain. Recovery efforts were challenging due to the rugged landscape and early winter conditions. By Sunday evening, the Navy confirmed the deaths of both crew members.
Cmdr. Timothy Warburton, commanding officer of VAQ-130, expressed deep sorrow. “Our focus now is on supporting their families, their fellow sailors, and the wider Growler community as we grieve the passing of two extraordinary warriors and friends,” he said.
Lt. Cmdr. Evans was a Naval Flight Officer celebrated for her leadership and historic achievements. In 2023, she participated in the first all-female Super Bowl flyover, marking 50 years of women serving as U.S. Navy aviators. Known for her calm demeanor and dedication to mentoring, she was widely respected among peers.
Lt. Wileman, a Naval Aviator commissioned in 2018, was equally distinguished. Assigned to VAQ-130 in 2021, she earned multiple commendations for her precision, discipline, and leadership in the cockpit. Her family described her as someone who “lived with purpose and flew with passion.”
The EA-18G Growler, known for its electronic warfare capabilities, has a strong safety record, making the sudden crash especially concerning. Investigators from the Naval Safety Center, the NTSB, and local authorities have launched a full investigation. Early considerations include mechanical failure or systems malfunction, though officials warn it may take months to determine the exact cause.
Washington Governor Jay Inslee authorized the National Guard to secure the crash site, highlighting both safety and environmental concerns. “Our hearts are with the families and the entire Navy community,” he said.
