Navy confirms two missing fighter jet pilots are dead after crash in Washington State

The U.S. Navy confirmed Sunday that two pilots, who went missing after a fighter jet crash near Mount Rainier in Washington State, have died. The pilots were aboard a Navy EA-18G Growler on a routine training mission when the aircraft went down last week. While the wreckage was located on Wednesday, the two crew members were not immediately found, and the search for their remains is still ongoing.

Cmdr. Timothy Warburton, commanding officer of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 130, known as the “Zappers,” expressed his sorrow over the loss, stating, “It is with a heavy heart that we share the loss of two beloved Zappers.” Warburton emphasized that their immediate focus is on supporting the families of the fallen aviators and ensuring the well-being of their squadron and the Growler community. He also acknowledged the teamwork involved in safely recovering the deceased.

The Navy has not yet released the identities of the crew members, stating that they will withhold names until 24 hours after their families have been notified. The crash site, located at approximately 6,000 feet above sea level in a remote, heavily wooded area east of Mount Rainier, continues to be the focus of ongoing salvage and recovery efforts.