San Diego Plane Crash Today: Music Industry Mourns Loss of Dave Shapiro and Daniel Williams
San Diego, CA – A devastating plane crash in San Diego early Thursday morning has claimed the lives of six individuals, including prominent music agent Dave Shapiro and former The Devil Wears Prada (TDWP) drummer Daniel Williams. The Cessna 550, a small private jet, crashed into a residential neighborhood near Murphy Canyon at approximately 3:45 a.m. on May 22, 2025, sparking fires and causing significant destruction.
Crash Details: Cessna 550 Goes Down in Murphy Canyon
The Cessna Citation II (Cessna 550), owned by Shapiro himself, was on approach to Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport after a cross-country flight originating from Teterboro Airport in New Jersey, with a stop in Wichita, Kansas. Authorities believe dense coastal fog and limited visibility played a role in the accident.
The aircraft struck power lines before crashing into a row of homes near Tierrasanta in the Murphy Canyon military housing complex, triggering a fire that damaged at least ten residences and several vehicles.
Who Were the Victims?
Among those confirmed deceased:
Dave Shapiro, 42, is co-founder of Sound Talent Group, a well-known music agency that represents many top rock and metal acts. Shapiro was a respected figure in the touring industry and had close ties to bands like The Devil Wears Prada.
- Daniel Williams, 39, best known as the drummer for the metalcore band The Devil Wears Prada from 2005 to 2016. His untimely death has been mourned by fans and fellow musicians on social media.
The identities of the other passengers have not been publicly disclosed, pending notification of their families.
Eyewitness Accounts and Emergency Response
Residents described the scene as apocalyptic. “It felt like a bomb went off,” said a local Murphy Canyon resident. Flames engulfed parts of the block shortly after the jet crash. Emergency services were on the scene within minutes, working to contain fires and evacuate residents.
At least eight people on the ground were injured, including a family of five, who are currently being treated for smoke inhalation and minor burns.
Investigation Underway
The FAA and NTSB have launched a full investigation into the airplane crash San Diego. A preliminary report is expected in the coming weeks. Investigators will examine flight records, weather data, and the aircraft’s maintenance logs.
So far, early speculation points to poor visibility and possible pilot error, though no official cause has been determined.
Music Industry Reacts
The music world is in mourning. Sound Talent Group released a statement:
"Dave was a visionary, a leader, and a beloved member of our community. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched."
The Devil Wears Prada also posted a heartfelt tribute on social media:
"No words. We owe you everything. Love you forever, brother."
San Diego Community Rallies Together
The plane crash in San Diego has deeply affected the Murphy Canyon and Tierrasanta communities. Displaced families are being supported by emergency housing programs, and local residents are already organizing donation drives and support efforts.
This tragic plane crash San Diego today has not only robbed the music industry of two major figures but also shaken a quiet residential area. As the investigation into the Dave Shapiro plane crash continues, the city of San Diego stands united in grief and support.
Tragic Plane Crash in San Diego: Music Agent Dave Shapiro and Drummer Daniel Williams Among the Victims
San Diego, CA – May 22, 2025
Devastating Cessna 550 Crash in San Diego: Six Dead, Including Music Industry Figures
San Diego was rocked by a heartbreaking tragedy early Thursday morning when a Cessna 550 aircraft crashed into a residential area near Murphy Canyon at around 3:45 a.m. local time. The crash, which has left six people dead, included two prominent music industry figures—Dave Shapiro, co-founder of Sound Talent Group (STG), and Daniel Williams, former drummer of the metalcore band The Devil Wears Prada (TDWP). The plane, which had been en route to Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport, collided with power lines before crashing into homes, igniting fires that destroyed several properties and injured at least eight people on the ground.
The incident has left the community in shock and has sent shockwaves through the music industry, where Shapiro and Williams were well-known and deeply respected figures. As the investigation into the cause of the crash continues, questions about the safety of small private planes, particularly in foggy conditions, have come to the forefront.
The Cessna 550 Crash: How It Happened
The ill-fated Cessna Citation II, a popular business jet, took off from Teterboro Airport in New Jersey and made a stopover in Wichita, Kansas. The flight was intended to land at Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport in San Diego after a long cross-country journey. Despite its relatively short distance from the airport, the plane faced a challenging approach due to dense fog and poor visibility over the southern California region.
At the time of the crash, weather conditions were far from ideal. The area near Murphy Canyon, a residential district housing U.S. military personnel and their families, was blanketed in thick fog, which likely hindered the pilot’s ability to navigate safely.
The plane, piloted by Dave Shapiro—a licensed aviator—struck power lines as it descended into the area. These power lines were located in a densely populated section of Murphy Canyon, close to Tierrasanta, a community that is home to many military families. After striking the lines, the plane plummeted into the homes below, causing explosions and fires upon impact. The devastation was catastrophic, with several homes destroyed and multiple vehicles affected by the jet fuel spill. Firefighters responded swiftly, but the impact of the crash was far-reaching.
The Victims: Dave Shapiro and Daniel Williams
Dave Shapiro, 42, was one of the most influential talent agents in the music industry. He was a co-founder of Sound Talent Group, a talent agency known for its representation of top-tier rock and metal bands. Shapiro’s career spanned nearly two decades, during which he helped shape the careers of bands such as The Devil Wears Prada, Underoath, Every Time I Die, and many more. He was well-liked and admired for his passion for music and his dedication to his clients.
As a licensed private pilot, Shapiro often flew to meetings and events across the country. He was known for his sense of adventure and his love for aviation, but tragically, his passion for flying ended in this horrific crash. His death has left a huge void in the music industry, and tributes have poured in from colleagues and friends who remembered him not only as a mentor and professional but also as a loyal friend.
Daniel Williams, 39, was the former drummer for The Devil Wears Prada, one of the most influential metalcore bands of the 2000s. Williams played with TDWP from 2005 until 2016, contributing to their unique sound that blended heavy, aggressive rhythms with melodic elements. During his time with the band, Williams helped shape some of their most iconic albums, including "With Roots Above and Branches Below" and "Dear Love: A Beautiful Discord".
Williams was known for his explosive drumming and dedication to his craft, but more than that, he was a beloved member of the TDWP family. His departure from the band in 2016 was met with sadness, but he continued to remain an important part of the TDWP community. The band has since issued a statement on social media, saying, “No words. We owe you everything. Love you forever.” Fans and bandmates alike have expressed their grief at the tragic loss.
The Aftermath: Damage to Murphy Canyon and the Immediate Response
The plane crash in San Diego caused significant destruction in the Murphy Canyon area. The crash site was in close proximity to military housing, and the firefighters and paramedics were quick to respond. Several residential homes were destroyed or severely damaged in the crash, and multiple vehicles were impacted by the flames. Local authorities have confirmed that at least ten homes were damaged, and many residents were evacuated to safety.
The explosion from the jet fuel ignited fires, and authorities fear that the destruction could have been much worse had it not been for the swift response from local firefighters. In total, eight individuals on the ground were hospitalized with injuries, including a family of five that was treated for smoke inhalation and minor burns. Thankfully, no additional fatalities were reported from those on the ground.
Investigation and Possible Causes
As investigators work to piece together the events leading up to the crash, early reports suggest that the foggy conditions in the area may have played a significant role in the tragic incident. However, there are still many questions to be answered about whether the aircraft’s mechanical condition or the pilot’s decisions contributed to the crash.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched a full investigation into the cause of the crash. The NTSB has dispatched a team of investigators to the crash site and has begun recovering the wreckage of the Cessna Citation for further analysis. While early speculations point to pilot error or weather conditions, the investigation will focus on all possible factors, including the aircraft’s maintenance history, the pilot’s flight records, and the specific weather conditions at the time of the crash.
Preliminary reports are expected within the next two weeks, while a more detailed analysis may take months to complete. The NTSB has also stated that it will closely examine flight path data, as well as weather radar, to assess whether there were any critical missteps that contributed to the incident.
Tributes Pour In: The Music Industry Remembers Dave Shapiro and Daniel Williams
In the wake of this tragic plane crash, tributes have poured in from all corners of the music world. Fans, fellow musicians, and colleagues have expressed their sadness over the deaths of Dave Shapiro and Daniel Williams.
Sound Talent Group released a statement acknowledging the loss of one of its founders:
"Dave was not only a visionary in the world of talent management but also a true friend and mentor to many. His legacy will live on through the artists he championed, and we will forever be grateful for his impact on the music industry."
The Devil Wears Prada shared their grief on social media, stating,
"Dave, you were our agent, our guide, and our friend. Daniel, you were family. There are no words that can fully capture how we feel. Rest in peace, and know that you will always be a part of our hearts."
In addition to their contributions to the music world, Shapiro and Williams were both known for their charitable work and their love of connecting with fans. Many fans have taken to social media to express their gratitude for the impact these two men had on their lives through their music, work, and dedication.
Community Impact and Support
The community of San Diego, particularly those in the Murphy Canyon and Tierrasanta neighborhoods, has shown remarkable resilience in the face of this tragedy. Local officials have mobilized emergency housing assistance for displaced residents, and relief efforts are underway to help the victims of the plane crash. Several community organizations have launched fundraisers to assist the families affected by the crash, and volunteers have been working tirelessly to provide food, shelter, and support to those in need.
The San Diego Fire Department and Police Department have been praised for their rapid response to the crash, which prevented further loss of life. The community’s solidarity has been evident as neighbors and local businesses rally together to support those affected.
Final Thoughts: A Loss Felt Across the Industry
The tragic Cessna 550 crash in San Diego on May 22, 2025, has left an indelible mark on the music industry, the San Diego community, and the loved ones of Dave Shapiro and Daniel Williams. These two individuals were more than just figures in the music business—they were mentors, friends, and inspirations to those who knew them. Their untimely deaths are a devastating loss, and their absence will be deeply felt for years to come.
As investigations continue, the city of San Diego and the broader music community mourn the loss of two beloved figures. Dave Shapiro, Daniel Williams, and the other victims of this tragic incident will not be forgotten. Their legacies will live on through the music, memories, and lives they touched.
San Diego Plane Crash Cause: What Happened?
On the morning of May 22, 2025, a Cessna 550 (Cessna Citation II) crashed into a residential neighborhood near Murphy Canyon, San Diego. The aircraft was en route to Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport after a cross-country flight from Teterboro Airport in New Jersey, with a stopover in Wichita, Kansas. The plane crashed in dense fog conditions, causing significant destruction to homes and vehicles and resulting in several casualties.
The incident has prompted a full investigation by the FAA and NTSB, with authorities considering a variety of factors that may have contributed to the crash. These include potential pilot error, weather conditions, and mechanical failure. Initial reports suggest that the Cessna 550 struck power lines before crashing into the residential area, which ignited fires and exacerbated the damage.
Are There Any Casualties?
Tragically, the San Diego plane crash resulted in six fatalities, including two well-known figures from the music industry. Dave Shapiro, 42, the co-founder of Sound Talent Group, and Daniel Williams, 39, the former drummer of the metalcore band The Devil Wears Prada, were confirmed dead at the scene.
In addition to the fatalities onboard, the crash caused injuries to eight people on the ground, including a family of five, who were treated for smoke inhalation and minor burns. Thankfully, no additional fatalities were reported among the residents of the Murphy Canyon area, although many homes were severely damaged or destroyed.
How Much is Damaged?
The crash caused extensive damage in the Murphy Canyon neighborhood. At least ten homes were affected, with several completely destroyed by the fire caused by the jet fuel spill. Numerous vehicles were also damaged, and power lines were knocked down in the impact.
The damage to homes and infrastructure, combined with the destruction of the aircraft itself, is expected to result in a multi-million-dollar cost in repairs and recovery. Local authorities have confirmed that many of the affected homes were part of a military housing complex, further complicating recovery efforts, as some families had to be evacuated while their homes were assessed for safety.
Why Did It Happen?
The exact cause of the plane crash is still under investigation, but several factors are likely contributing to the incident. Initial reports suggest weather conditions were a major factor. The dense fog that blanketed the San Diego area could have severely impaired the pilot's visibility, making it difficult to navigate the aircraft safely. In addition, the plane struck power lines before crashing into the residential area, which may have been the result of a misjudgment in navigating the descent.
Given that Dave Shapiro was an experienced pilot, investigators will also look into whether pilot error or mechanical failure played a role in the crash. Early speculation points to weather conditions as the most likely cause, but the FAA and NTSB are continuing their investigation to determine all possible contributing factors.
What Kind of Plane Crashed in San Diego?
The Cessna 550, also known as the Cessna Citation II, is a small, twin-engine jet that is commonly used for business and personal flights. The Cessna Citation II is known for its reliability and is widely used in the private aviation sector, particularly for medium-range flights. The plane involved in the crash was owned by Dave Shapiro, who was a licensed pilot.
The Cessna 550 has a capacity to carry up to ten passengers and a range of about 1,500 nautical miles. Although it is generally considered safe and reliable, as with any aircraft, accidents can occur under certain conditions, such as poor weather, mechanical failure, or pilot error. In this case, the plane’s collision with power lines and subsequent crash into a residential area suggests a tragic series of miscalculations or misfortunes during the flight.
Where Did the Plane That Crashed in San Diego Originate?
The plane involved in the crash originated from Teterboro Airport in New Jersey. The Cessna 550 had made a stop in Wichita, Kansas, before continuing on its final leg toward Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport in San Diego. The flight had been planned as a cross-country journey, but after taking off from Wichita, the plane encountered challenging weather conditions, including dense fog as it neared San Diego.
As the aircraft approached the Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport, its visibility was severely limited by the fog, which made navigation more difficult. Investigators are currently looking into whether the weather played a significant role in the crash or whether other factors, such as pilot error or mechanical issues, contributed to the tragic outcome.
Major Plane Crashes in the U.S.: A History of Tragedy
While the Cessna 550 crash in San Diego is a tragic event, it is not the first time that a small plane has crashed in a densely populated area. The U.S. has a history of major plane crashes, many of which have resulted in significant loss of life and prompted sweeping changes in aviation regulations.
Some of the most notable major plane crashes in the U.S. include:
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American Airlines Flight 191 (1979) – One of the deadliest aviation accidents in U.S. history, this crash occurred when a DC-10 lost an engine during takeoff from Chicago O'Hare Airport, resulting in 273 deaths.
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TWA Flight 800 (1996) – This tragic crash occurred off the coast of Long Island, New York, when a Boeing 747 exploded mid-air, killing all 230 passengers and crew on board. It was later determined to be caused by a spark in the fuel tank.
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American Airlines Flight 77 (2001) – A hijacked Boeing 757 was crashed into the Pentagon during the September 11 attacks, resulting in the deaths of 64 people on the plane and 125 on the ground.
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Colgan Air Flight 3407 (2009) – A Bombardier Dash 8 crashed in Buffalo, New York, killing all 49 people on board and one person on the ground. Investigations revealed issues with pilot training and fatigue.
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Asiana Airlines Flight 214 (2013) – This crash at San Francisco International Airport involved a Boeing 777, resulting in 3 deaths and more than 180 injuries. The crash was attributed to pilot error and misjudgment during the landing approach.
Each of these incidents has led to reforms in aviation safety, stricter regulations for pilot training, and more advanced technology designed to reduce the risk of accidents. In the wake of this latest tragedy in San Diego, there will likely be further discussions about the safety protocols for small private aircraft, especially under adverse weather conditions.
A Sad Day for San Diego and the Music Industry
The San Diego plane crash has left a deep scar on the local community and the broader music world. Dave Shapiro and Daniel Williams, both of whom were influential in the music industry, have left behind an undeniable legacy, and their untimely deaths are felt across the globe. As the investigation into the cause of the crash continues, the people of San Diego and the music community will continue to mourn their loss.
Authorities are working diligently to determine what led to the crash, and the NTSB will play a crucial role in providing answers. Meanwhile, tributes to Shapiro and Williams continue to pour in, highlighting the impact they had on their friends, colleagues, and fans. This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of safety in the aviation industry.