The Navy identified two female aviators killed in an EA-18G Growler crash near Naval Air Station Whidbey Island in Washington as Lt. Cmdr. Lyndsay P. Evans and Lt. Serena N. Wileman, both 31.
Evans, from Palmdale, California, and Wileman, from California, were assigned to Electronic Attack Squadron 130, known as the “Zappers.” Evans served as a Naval Flight Officer, while Wileman was a Naval Aviator commissioned in 2018.
Evans made history in 2023 as part of the first all-female flyover at Super Bowl LVII, honoring five decades of women in naval aviation. Wileman earned multiple military honors, including the Navy Unit Commendation Medal and Combat Action Ribbon, after joining the Zappers in 2021.
Statement From Squadron Leadership
“It is with a heavy heart that we announce the loss of two cherished Zappers,” said Cmdr. Timothy Warburton, the squadron’s commanding officer. “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, saying the aviators “paved the way for generations of women who will follow in their footsteps.”
Investigation and Response
Washington Gov. Jay Inslee authorized the National Guard to provide round-the-clock security at the crash site, while Navy teams prepare for a long-term salvage operation. The exact cause of the accident remains under investigation.
The EA-18G Growler, a $67 million electronic warfare aircraft derived from the F/A-18 Super Hornet, serves as the Navy’s front-line platform for electronic attack missions. The aircraft arrived at Whidbey Island in 2008 and has been deployed globally.
This story has been updated. CNN’s Military and Defense Team contributed to this report.
