Tragedy in the Skies: Dave Shapiro and Daniel Williams Die in San Diego Plane Crash

Overview

A devastating plane crash rocked the Murphy Canyon neighborhood of San Diego in the early hours of May 22, 2025. The private jet, a Cessna Citation II (Cessna 550), crashed into a residential military housing area, killing all six people onboard and injuring several on the ground. Among the deceased were Dave Shapiro, co-founder of Sound Talent Group, and Daniel Williams, the former drummer of The Devil Wears Prada (TDWP), a popular American metalcore band.

What Happened: Timeline of the Crash

• Aircraft: Cessna Citation II (Tail number N666DS)
• Owned by: Daviation LLC (Dave Shapiro's private company)
• Departure: Teterboro Airport, New Jersey → Fuel stop in Wichita, Kansas
• Intended Destination: Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport, San Diego
• Crash Time: Approx. 3:45 AM PT
• Crash Site: Murphy Canyon, San Diego – a densely populated military housing zone
• Damage: Over 15 homes affected, major fire, power outages, eight ground injuries

The plane was approaching Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport in dense fog and low visibility when it struck power lines and crashed, igniting multiple structures.

Who Were the Victims?

Dave Shapiro – Visionary Talent Agent

Image Source: Wikipedia

Dave Shapiro, 42, was a renowned music industry executive and co-founder of Sound Talent Group, a talent agency representing artists like Sum 41, Story of the Year, and Pierce the Veil. As a licensed pilot, Shapiro frequently flew private aircraft. He was reportedly at the controls during this tragic flight.

"Dave was more than a colleague – he was a visionary. His impact on the music world is immeasurable." – Statement from Sound Talent Group

Daniel Williams – Former Drummer of The Devil Wears Prada

Daniel Williams, 39, rose to fame as the drummer for The Devil Wears Prada, a Christian metalcore band with a global fanbase. His tragic death has sent shockwaves through the metal community.

In a chilling twist, Williams had posted Instagram stories from inside the plane's cockpit just hours before the crash, tagging Dave Shapiro.

"He lived music and inspired thousands. Rest in peace, Daniel." – TDWP Band Statement

A Neighborhood in Flames: The Murphy Canyon Impact

Murphy Canyon is home to hundreds of military families. The crash destroyed multiple homes and forced around 100 residents to evacuate. One family described waking up to a "fireball" engulfing their home.

"We thought it was a bomb. My kids and I barely escaped with our lives," said resident Srujiana McCarty.

Local firefighters, police, and HAZMAT teams responded quickly. An evacuation shelter was established at Miller Elementary School nearby.

The Aircraft: Cessna Citation II (C550)

The Cessna Citation II is a small business jet known for its range and reliability. However, aviation experts suggest this particular aircraft may not have had updated terrain awareness systems.

Key Aircraft Details:

• Model: Cessna 550 Citation II
• Built: 1985
• Operator: Dave Shapiro (Private)
• Known Issues: Older avionics, potentially limited in severe weather operations

NTSB Investigation Underway

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the incident alongside the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Early indications point to poor weather and possible pilot disorientation as contributing factors.

The flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder have been recovered and sent for analysis.

Reactions from the Music World

Tributes are flooding social media:

• TDWP Official: "RIP our brother Daniel. You'll always be part of this family."
• Pierce the Veil: "Our hearts go out to the Shapiro family. Dave built careers and gave musicians dreams."
• Fans: #RIPDaveShapiro and #DanielWilliams trended on X (Twitter) within hours.

What This Means for Aviation Safety

This crash raises broader concerns about the risks of nighttime private flights in poor weather, especially over populated areas. Experts recommend:

• Mandatory weather radar in older aircraft
• Stricter nighttime approach regulations
• Increased pilot situational training

Final Thoughts

The deaths of Dave Shapiro and Daniel Williams have left a deep void in the music and aviation communities. The crash serves as a tragic reminder of how fragile life is—and how important it is to improve flight safety, especially in civilian and residential zones.

The FAA and NTSB continue to investigate. Meanwhile, tributes, support for the families, and community rebuilding efforts are ongoing in San Diego.

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