A U.S. Navy E/A-18G Growler jet crashed into the San Diego Bay near Shelter Island on Wednesday morning. Both pilots successfully ejected and were rescued by a nearby fishing vessel before being transferred to a Customs and Border Protection boat. They were taken to a local hospital and are reported to be in stable condition.
The incident occurred around 10:15 a.m. as the aircraft was attempting to land. The cause of the crash is currently under investigation. The Coast Guard has deployed vessels to safeguard the wreckage in the harbor and is working to contain a fuel spill resulting from the crash.
The E/A-18G Growler is a two-seater jet specializing in electronic warfare and has been in service with the Navy for the past 15 years. This incident follows a previous crash involving a Growler in October near Mt. Rainier, which resulted in the deaths of both pilots.
Authorities are advising the public to avoid the area as recovery and investigation efforts continue.
