Blue Angels under fire after Seattle woman links air shows to pet cat’s death
Jul 23, 2025, 7:33 AM | Updated: 1:38 pm
A Seattle woman has decided to sue the U.S. Navy, claiming the Blue Angels were responsible for the death of her cat.
In the lawsuit, the woman, Lauren Ann Lombardi, insisted that the Blue Angels demonstrations over Seattle in 2023 and 2024 triggered severe panic attacks in her elderly pet, Layla. The cat began to suffer from having an elevated heart rate and extreme distress, eventually leading to euthanasia.
Layla suffered from congestive heart disease, according to Lombardi. The cat allegedly became physically ill from the sound of the squadron’s low-flying F/A-18 fighter jets. Layla was put down in August 2024.
The lawsuit cited studies on the health impact of jet noise on both humans and animals, according to KIRO 7, claiming the Blue Angels’ demonstrations have led to harm beyond just her household. One study in the lawsuit estimated that more than 74,000 Puget Sound residents have been exposed to noise levels high enough to cause health issues when the Blue Angels perform overhead.
Another study pointed to evidence that such noise disrupts the behavior of marine life, including endangered orcas, according to court documents obtained by KIRO 7.
Instagram account critical of Blue Angels taken down
Lombardi took to social media to voice her frustrations with the Blue Angels, creating an Instagram account and a petition called “We All Want to Feel Safe: No More Blue Angels Over Seattle.” Lombardi claimed her account was blocked by the official Blue Angels Instagram page.
In addition to damages, the lawsuit is seeking a court order to unblock her account and prohibit the Blue Angels from blocking others based on their viewpoint. Lombardi also wants Navy personnel to undergo First Amendment training and to have her legal costs covered.
“She was prevented from commenting, receiving information, or participating in public discussions on the page,” the complaint read, according to KIRO 7. “This action violates her First Amendment rights by suppressing criticism of government conduct.”
Growing opposition against Blue Angels demonstrations
A new billboard reading, “SAY NO TO BLUE ANGELS,” was unveiled Tuesday afternoon on Rainier Avenue S. The organization Airshow Climate Action Coalition argued that the annual Blue Angels air show has direct links to health and environmental impacts, while others want to “demilitarize Seafair.”
The U.S. Navy Blue Angels have been performing at Seafair since 1972. They are expected to perform during the first weekend of August.
The Navy has declined comment, citing the pending litigation.
Contributing: KIRO 7
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