San Diego, CA — In the early hours of May 22, 2025, tragedy struck the Murphy Canyon neighborhood of San Diego when a small private jet crashed into a residential area, claiming the lives of six people onboard, including Daniel Williams, the former drummer of the influential metalcore band The Devil Wears Prada, and Dave Shapiro, co-founder of Sound Talent Group and owner of the aircraft. This heartbreaking incident not only devastated the music community but also wrought significant destruction to the neighborhood, forcing over 100 residents to evacuate amid burning wreckage and chaos.
Just before the ill-fated flight, Daniel Williams shared a series of Instagram stories capturing moments from the trip. One poignant post featured him in the pilot’s seat, humorously declaring, “Hey. Hey… you… look at me…. I’m the (co)pilot now,” a reference that now resonates with bittersweet irony. Another image showed the aircraft with the caption, “Flying back with @davevelocity,” tagging Dave Shapiro, with a final story showing Williams ready for takeoff, captioned simply, “Here we gooooo.” These digital traces serve as a haunting reminder of lives abruptly ended.
The aircraft involved was a Cessna Citation II that departed from Teterboro Airport, New Jersey, late on May 21, making a scheduled fuel stop in Wichita, Kansas, before continuing westbound. At approximately 3:45 a.m. Pacific Time, while approaching Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport in San Diego, the plane crashed under dense fog conditions, striking power lines before crashing into the neighborhood. The force of the impact ignited fires that consumed or severely damaged at least 15 homes and several vehicles. Emergency responders, including more than 50 firefighters and paramedics, rushed to the scene to extinguish the flames, rescue trapped residents, and contain the disaster.
The human toll was devastating. All six aboard the plane perished, with identified victims including 42-year-old Dave Shapiro, a respected music agent who represented well-known bands like Sum 41 and Story of the Year, and Daniel Williams, 39, celebrated for his dynamic drumming and early contributions to The Devil Wears Prada before his departure in 2016. Two other employees of Sound Talent Group also lost their lives, though their identities remain private pending family notifications. The impact of this loss rippled throughout the music industry and among fans worldwide, many expressing shock and grief over the sudden departure of these influential figures.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) launched a comprehensive investigation into the crash, focusing on adverse weather conditions, possible pilot error, and mechanical issues. Preliminary findings highlight dense fog and limited visibility as significant factors contributing to the tragedy. The collision with power lines likely worsened the crash’s severity, and investigators are reviewing flight recordings and communication logs to piece together the final moments of the flight.
This tragedy has reignited conversations around the safety protocols for private aircraft, especially when operating under challenging weather conditions. It raises critical questions about pilot training, aircraft maintenance, and decision-making processes that govern private flights. The incident has placed renewed emphasis on ensuring rigorous safety standards and preventive measures in the private aviation sector.
In the immediate aftermath, the local community showed remarkable resilience and solidarity. Emergency shelters were swiftly set up to accommodate displaced families, and relief efforts mobilized to assist those who lost homes and belongings. The neighborhood of Murphy Canyon, typically peaceful and close-knit, found itself united in grief and mutual support during this crisis. Community organizations and volunteers have been instrumental in providing aid, counseling, and comfort to the affected residents.
The music world, too, has come together to honor the memories of Williams and Shapiro. Numerous tributes and memorials have been organized to celebrate their lives, contributions, and enduring influence. Fans worldwide have shared stories of how their work inspired them, highlighting the personal warmth and professional dedication that defined these men beyond their public personas.
This tragic crash in San Diego is a stark reminder of life’s fragility and the profound impact individuals have on their communities. While investigations continue to unravel the causes, the legacies of Daniel Williams and Dave Shapiro live on—not only through the music and careers they shaped but in the hearts of those whose lives they touched. Their loss is mourned deeply, but their memories remain a beacon of inspiration and love.
In these moments of sorrow, the San Diego community, the music industry, and families affected have found strength in coming together, honoring those lost, and committing to safety and vigilance to prevent future tragedies. The echoes of this crash will linger, but so too will the resilience of a community and the lasting contributions of two remarkable men gone far too soon.
