Cmdr. Lyndsay P. Evans and Lt. Serena N. Wileman, both aged 31 and hailing from California. The fatal incident occurred on October 15, and after initially being listed as missing, the Navy confirmed their deaths on Sunday.

Commander Timothy Warburton expressed deep sorrow for this tragic loss, emphasizing the importance of supporting the families of the deceased aviators and the broader Growler community. Efforts have now shifted from search and rescue to recovery operations to safely bring back the remains of the fallen servicemembers.

The ill-fated EA-18G Growler jet had departed from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island on a routine training flight and crashed in a remote, wooded area at an altitude of about 6,000 feet, east of Mount Rainier. The wreckage was sighted on October 16, and recovery teams reached the crash site by Friday.

Both Evans and Wileman had recently completed a nine-month deployment with their squadron, Electronic Attack Squadron 310, also known as the "Zappers." Their deployment mainly involved operations in the Red Sea aboard the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, participating in Operations INHERENT RESOLVE, PROSPERITY GUARDIAN, and POSEIDON ARCHER.

Lt. Cmdr. Evans, a Naval Flight Officer, enlisted in August 2010 and was a product of the Reserve Officers' Training Corps at the University of Southern California. She was respected for her tactical expertise and leadership, having earned several commendations including two Single Action Air Medals and three Strike Flight Air Medals for her performance during combat strikes in Yemen during her 2023-24 deployment.

Lt. Wileman, described as the "heart and soul" of her squadron, was commissioned through Officer Candidate School in Newport, Rhode Island. Known for her positive influence and commitment, she earned three Strike Flight Air Medals for her combat mission contributions in Yemen.

Governor Jay Inslee has authorized the Washington National Guard to provide round-the-clock security at designated traffic control points to aid in the recovery efforts. Both he and U.S. Senator Patty Murray offered their heartfelt condolences, recognizing and honoring the bravery and sacrifice of Evans and Wileman in service to their country.

The cause of the crash is currently under investigation. The military community and various local agencies, including the Washington National Guard, Yakama Nation, Yakima County, and King County, have been actively involved in the complex recovery operations.