The Navy identified two female Naval aviators who died in an EA-18G Growler crash near Naval Air Station Whidbey Island in Washington state.
Lt. Cmdr. Lyndsay P. Evans, 31, of Palmdale, California, and Lt. Serena N. Wileman, 31, of California, were assigned to Electronic Attack Squadron 130, based at the installation. The identification was confirmed Monday.
Evans served as a Naval Flight Officer and 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 was commissioned as a Naval Aviator in 2018 and joined the squadron three years later.
Squadron Leadership Reacts
Cmdr. Timothy Warburton, the Electronic Attack Squadron 130 commanding officer, said “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the loss of two cherished Zappers.” He added that supporting the families and sailors remained the squadron’s priority.
Wileman earned multiple commendations during her service, including the Navy Unit Commendation Medal and Combat Action Ribbon. Both aviators served in the squadron known as the “Zappers.”
Investigation and Response
Washington Gov. Jay Inslee authorized the National Guard to provide round-the-clock security near the crash site while Navy teams prepare for a long-term salvage effort. The exact cause of the accident remains under investigation.
The EA-18G Growler is a $67 million electronic warfare aircraft derived from the F/A-18 Super Hornet. The Navy’s fleet of Growlers arrived at Whidbey Island beginning in 2008 and has been used in global operations.
Legislative Tributes
U.S. Senator Patty Murray, who had previously met Evans during a base visit, described her as “a pioneering leader who broke barriers and made history.” Murray extended condolences to both families, noting the aviators “paved the way for generations of women who will follow in their footsteps.”
The deaths mark a significant loss for the military aviation community and underscore the expanding role of women in combat operations. The investigation into the crash continues.
This story has been updated. CNN’s staff contributed to this report.