Mount Rainier, Washington – Navy Fighter Jet Crash Update
In a troubling turn of events, the U.S. Navy announced the discovery of wreckage from an EA-18G Growler fighter jet that crashed east of Mount Rainier during a training exercise on Tuesday. The crash occurred around 3:23 p.m., with two crew members on board, who are currently reported missing.
Details of the Incident
The plane, part of the Electronic Attack Squadron, was on a routine training flight when it went down in a remote mountainous area. As search efforts progressed into Wednesday, teams from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island deployed an MH-60S helicopter to assist in locating the crew and evaluating the wreckage site.
Aerial search units managed to spot the wreckage at approximately 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, reported Mike Welding, a spokesperson for the air station. However, exact details about the crew’s condition remain uncertain. The Navy is preparing to send ground teams to the crash site, which is not accessible via motor vehicles. This area is expected to experience snow throughout the weekend, complicating rescue efforts.
Status of the Crew
Navy officials have not confirmed whether the crew members were able to eject before the crash. An investigation is currently underway to determine the cause of the incident. Such investigations can often take time as they delve into technical aspects and eyewitness reports.
About the EA-18G Growler
The EA-18G Growler is a specialized version of the F/A-18F Super Hornet and is equipped with advanced electronic warfare systems. Most of the Growler squadrons are stationed at Whidbey Island, with other units located at Marine Corps Air Station in Iwakuni, Japan. The aircraft has a notable role in electronic attack and defense against threats in hostile environments. Each unit of this high-tech jet costs roughly $67 million.
The Growler has been in operation since its first production was delivered to Whidbey Island in 2008, and it has participated in military actions around the world over the past 15 years. With a configuration that features a pilot in the front seat and an electronics operator in the back, the Growler is viewed as the Navy’s top asset for electronic warfare.
Challenges in Military Aviation Training
Training exercises for military aircraft can pose significant dangers. Unfortunately, crashes involving military jets have taken place in the past. For instance, a separate incident occurred earlier this year when an F-35 jet crashed after a refueling stop, leaving the pilot with serious injuries. Additionally, in 2022, a tragic accident resulted in the deaths of eight service members when a CV-22B Osprey aircraft went down off the Japanese coast.
Looking Ahead
The ongoing search for the missing crew members encapsulates the risks that military personnel face during training exercises. As the Navy continues its efforts amidst challenging weather conditions, both the military community and the families of the crew members remain hopeful for positive news in the coming days.
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
