Update: Beloved Public Figure Passes Away – Here’s What We Know

Federal investigators are searching for answers after a devastating Navy aircraft crash near Mount Rainier claimed the lives of two decorated officers. The $67 million EA-18G Growler—a cutting-edge electronic warfare jet—went down during a routine training mission last week in rugged forested terrain, leaving the Navy community and the nation mourning two exceptional aviators.

On Monday, the Navy identified the fallen crew as Lt. Cmdr. Lyndsay P. Evans, 31, of Palmdale, California, and Lt. Serena N. Wileman, 31, also from California. Both served with Electronic Attack Squadron 130 (VAQ-130), the “Zappers,” based at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington.

The aircraft disappeared from radar during a low-altitude training flight late Friday morning, triggering an immediate search-and-rescue operation involving Navy aircraft, local authorities, and National Park Service rangers. Wreckage was found the following afternoon at about 6,000 feet, scattered across dense mountainous terrain. Recovery was slowed by steep slopes and harsh winter conditions. By Sunday evening, the Navy confirmed the heartbreaking loss.

“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of two cherished Zappers,” said Cmdr. Timothy Warburton, commanding officer of VAQ-130. “Our focus now is on supporting their families, fellow sailors, and the wider Growler community as we mourn the loss of two extraordinary warriors and friends.”

Trailblazing Aviators Who Made History

Lt. Cmdr. Lyndsay Evans was a Naval Flight Officer whose career was already distinguished. In 2023, she made history by participating in the first-ever all-female flyover at Super Bowl LVII, marking 50 years of women serving as Navy aviators. Colleagues remembered her as calm under pressure, a committed mentor, and an officer every sailor wanted to fly with.

Lt. Serena Wileman was a Naval Aviator commissioned in 2018, joining the Zappers three years later. Known for precision and discipline, she had already earned the Navy Unit Commendation Medal and the Combat Action Ribbon. Peers praised her sharp intellect and quiet leadership. Her family said she “lived with purpose and flew with passion.”

A Devastating Loss for the Navy

The EA-18G Growler, a specialized variant of the F/A-18 Super Hornet, is a cornerstone of U.S. electronic warfare, capable of jamming enemy radar and disrupting communications to protect forces in combat. The crash shocked aviation experts.