San Diego Plane Crash Victims Identified as Investigation Continues
A tragic plane crash in a San Diego neighborhood on Thursday, May 22, claimed the lives of six individuals onboard, including two high-profile members of the music industry.
The small aircraft, a Cessna 550, went down in the Murphy Canyon area during the morning hours, triggering a large emergency response. Authorities were quick to evacuate nearby homes as jet fuel spilled into residential streets and multiple houses caught fire.
“This was a significant impact with a wide debris field,” said Assistant Fire Chief Dan Eddy. “Our primary focus has been making sure everyone in the area is accounted for and safe.”
Among the victims was Dave Shapiro, a respected music agent and co-founder of Sound Talent Group. Shapiro, who was also a skilled pilot and flight instructor, was reportedly operating the plane at the time of the crash. Known for representing artists such as Sum 41 and Story of the Year, Shapiro’s influence in the rock and metal music scenes was substantial.
“We are devastated by this loss,” a representative from Sound Talent Group shared. “Three members of our team were aboard that flight. We ask for privacy and support for their families during this difficult time.”
Also onboard was Daniel Williams, former drummer of the metal band The Devil Wears Prada. Williams had remained active in music since departing the band and was remembered fondly by his former bandmates, who paid tribute to him and Shapiro in a heartfelt social media post.
“No words. We owe you everything. Love you forever,” they wrote.
The plane’s impact caused significant destruction on the ground. Several homes and vehicles were damaged or destroyed, and eight residents were hospitalized with smoke-related injuries. Thankfully, no fatalities occurred among those on the ground.
San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl described the scene as “horrific,” noting that flames and jet fuel filled the streets, creating a dangerous and chaotic environment.
Authorities are still investigating what caused the plane to crash. The National Transportation Safety Board and Federal Aviation Administration are involved in the inquiry.
As the community begins to recover, tributes continue to pour in for the victims, especially Shapiro and Williams, whose contributions to music left a lasting impact on fans and peers alike.