The U.S. Navy is grieving the loss of two aviators after an EA-18G Growler crashed near Mount Rainier during a routine training mission. Investigators are continuing to examine what caused the advanced electronic warfare aircraft to go down in remote, mountainous terrain.
The Navy identified the crew members as Lt. Cmdr. Lyndsay P. Evans, 31, of Palmdale, California, and Lt. Serena N. Wileman, 31, of California. Both were assigned to Electronic Attack Squadron 130, known as the “Zappers,” based at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.
Evans was widely recognized for taking part in the historic all-female flyover during Super Bowl LVII in 2023, celebrating 50 years of women in naval aviation. Wileman, commissioned in 2018, earned several honors during her service, including the Combat Action Ribbon and Navy Unit Commendation Medal.
The wreckage was discovered in steep, heavily wooded terrain east of Mount Rainier, making recovery efforts extremely difficult. After confirming both aviators had died, the Navy shifted from rescue operations to recovery efforts.
Officials, including Washington Gov. Jay Inslee and military leaders, expressed condolences to the families and praised both women for their dedication, leadership, and lasting contributions to naval aviation.
