Navy Jet Crash Kills Trailblazing Aviators Near Rainier

Lt. Cmdr. Lyndsay Evans and Lt. Serena Wileman, both 31, were identified as the two US Navy aviators killed when their EA-18G Growler crashed near Mount Rainier during a training flight on October 15. The aviators were recognized as trailblazers and role models, having recently returned from a nine-month deployment with Electronic Attack Squadron 130 in the Red Sea, where they conducted combat missions against Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen. Known as the 'Zappers,' their unit's efforts were pivotal in defending U.S. and Coalition forces. Evans was celebrated for her participation in the first all-female Super Bowl flyover, marking 50 years of women flying in the Navy, and both aviators earned multiple commendations for their service. The crash prompted a complex search and recovery mission due to challenging terrain and weather conditions, and the cause remains under investigation. Both aviators are remembered for their dedication and influential careers.