Military Jet Crashes into San Diego Bay: Two Service Members Rescued

A U.S. Navy fighter jet crashed into San Diego Bay near Shelter Island on Wednesday morning. The crash prompted a swift rescue operation for the two service members on board. According to San Diego Fire-Rescue (SDFD), the incident occurred around 10:15 a.m., with emergency crews rushing to the scene after receiving reports of the crash.

The aircraft involved was identified as a U.S. Navy EA-18G Growler. It is a specialized variant of the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. The Growler is assigned to Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 135. This squadron is based at Naval Air Station (NAS) Whidbey Island in Washington. The Growler is a critical asset in the Navy’s arsenal. It is equipped with advanced sensors. It also has weaponry designed to neutralize threats in hostile environments.

A charter fishing boat led the rescue effort. It was operated by H & M Landing. The boat happened to be nearby when the crash occurred. Frank Ursitti, the general manager of H & M Landing, recounted the dramatic moments following the incident. “The captain of the Premier saw the aviators eject from the plane. He immediately sprang into action,” Ursitti said. “Our crew, trained in lifesaving procedures, quickly turned the boat around and pulled both pilots from the water.”

Ursitti added that the plane crashed into the bay just minutes after the aviators ejected. Both service members were conscious when rescued and were transferred to a U.S. Customs and Border Protection boat, which transported them to a nearby dock. From there, they were taken to UC San Diego Medical Center for evaluation. The extent of their injuries has not been disclosed. However, their survival marks a fortunate outcome in what could have been a far more tragic event.

This incident is not the first involving an EA-18G Growler. In October 2024, a similar crash during a training exercise near Mount Rainier, Washington, resulted in fatalities. The aircraft involved in that crash was assigned to Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 130. This highlights the inherent risks of military aviation. These risks are present even during routine operations.

Following Wednesday’s crash, Naval Base Coronado established an emergency operations center to investigate the cause of the incident. The Navy has not yet released details about what might have led to the crash. Typically, investigations examine factors like mechanical failure, pilot error, or environmental conditions.

The quick response of the fishing boat crew underscores the importance of civilian readiness in emergency situations. Their actions likely played a crucial role in ensuring the aviators’ safety. This demonstrates how collaboration between military and civilian entities can save lives.