The music and entertainment world is mourning the sudden loss of two influential figures. Dave Shapiro, founder of Sound Talent Group, and Daniel Williams, drummer from The Devil Wears Prada band, were killed in the tragic San Diego plane crash involving a Cessna 550 jet. The accident occurred early on May 22, 2025, shaking the Murphy Canyon San Diego community and sending shockwaves through the rock and metal scene.

Plane crash San Diego: What happened in Murphy Canyon San Diego

The plane crash in San Diego happened just before dawn when a Cessna 550 aircraft, also known as a Cessna Citation II, attempted to land at Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport. Flying through thick coastal fog, the aircraft clipped power lines near Tierrasanta San Diego, causing a fiery crash in a residential area near Murphy Canyon military housing. The jet exploded on impact, damaging multiple homes and cars.

Emergency crews from San Diego responded quickly. Residents reported hearing a loud explosion followed by a wall of flames. No one on the ground was killed, but all six passengers aboard the aircraft perished, including Dave Shapiro and Daniel Williams.

Dave Shapiro plane crash: Remembering the Sound Talent Group visionary

Known throughout the music world, Dave Shapiro Sound Talent Group co-founder, was more than just a booking agent. He helped shape the careers of bands like The Devil Wears Prada, Sum 41, and Asking Alexandria. His passion for music was matched by his love for flying, making this David Shapiro plane crash even more heartbreaking.

The jet crash San Diego report revealed Dave Shapiro was piloting the Cessna Citation when the crash occurred. Licensed as a private pilot, he was also involved with a flight training program through his company Velocity Aviation.

Daniel Williams TDWP drummer among victims of San Diego jet crash

Fans of the Devil Wears Prada band were devastated to learn that Daniel Williams, known as the original Devil Wears Prada drummer, also died in the San Diego crash. As part of the early 2000s metalcore scene, Daniel Williams The Devil Wears Prada drummer brought an aggressive and emotional sound that influenced an entire generation.

Williams, often referred to as Daniel Williams TDWP, was continuing his creative journey outside the band and had stayed close to his music roots. His loss has triggered an outpouring of emotion from both fans and fellow musicians.

Plane crash today San Diego: FAA and NTSB launch investigation

The plane crash San Diego today has sparked a federal investigation. The NTSB and FAA are reviewing flight data, weather conditions, and maintenance logs. The crash near Murphy Canyon San Diego has highlighted the dangers of landing in poor visibility, especially for small plane crash San Diego scenarios.

Investigators are focusing on why the Cessna C550 hit power lines and whether mechanical failure or pilot error played a role. The full report may take months, but early statements point toward challenging weather and low visibility near Montgomery Gibbs Airport.

San Diego news reacts to Montgomery-Gibbs plane crash

Local San Diego news stations covered the event live, sharing footage of fire crews battling the blaze in Murphy Canyon. Images of the wrecked Cessna 550 and charred homes gripped the city. As residents recover from the shock, housing officials are supporting families affected by the Murphy Canyon plane crash. Many are asking if flight paths over residential areas like Tierrasanta and Murphy Canyon should be reevaluated. With more plane crashes San Diego occurring in recent years, safety around Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport is under the microscope.

The legacy of Dave Shapiro and Daniel Williams will live on

Despite the tragedy, the impact of David Shapiro San Diego and Daniel Williams drummer will not be forgotten. Artists and fans are posting tributes under hashtags like #DaveShapiro and #TDWP across social media. The Devil Wears Prada shared emotional posts honoring their former bandmate and their long-time agent.

From festival stages to backroom deals, Dave Shapiro and Sound Talent Group helped revolutionize independent artist touring. For bands struggling to break through, Dave was often the first person who believed in them. Daniel Williams, with his raw drumming and energy, gave metalcore a sound and soul it still carries today.

Plane crash Murphy Canyon San Diego: Final thoughts

The David Shapiro plane crash has left a deep scar on both the music and aviation communities. This wasn’t just another airplane crash San Diego — it was a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly life can change. As the investigation continues and fans mourn, one truth is certain: their influence will never be forgotten.