On May 22, 2025, a tragic aviation accident occurred in San Diego, California, when a private jet crashed into the Murphy Canyon neighborhood, resulting in the deaths of all six individuals on board. The incident has sent shockwaves through the music industry and local community, as it claimed the lives of notable figures, including former The Devil Wears Prada drummer Daniel Williams and music agent Dave Shapiro.
The Incident
The aircraft involved was a 1985 Cessna 550 Citation II, registered under N666DS and owned by Dave Shapiro, co-founder of Sound Talent Group. The jet departed from Teterboro Airport in New Jersey on the evening of May 21, made a refueling stop in Wichita, Kansas, and was en route to Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport in San Diego. At approximately 3:45 a.m. local time, during its final approach, the plane encountered dense fog and struck high-tension power lines before crashing into a residential area in Murphy Canyon. The impact caused a massive fire, destroying one home, damaging several others, and igniting multiple vehicles. Despite the extensive damage, there were no fatalities on the ground, though eight residents sustained injuries, with one person hospitalized.
The San Diego County Coroner’s Office confirmed the identities of all six victims:
- Dave Shapiro (42): A prominent music agent and co-founder of Sound Talent Group, Shapiro represented bands such as Sum 41, Story of the Year, and Pierce the Veil. He was also a certified flight instructor with 15 years of experience.
- Daniel Williams (39): Former drummer for the metalcore band The Devil Wears Prada, Williams left the band in 2016 and had since been working as a senior software architect, recently accepting a role at Apple Inc. He shared Instagram stories from the cockpit shortly before the crash.
- Emma L. Huke (25) and Kendall Fortner (24): Both were booking assistants at Sound Talent Group, contributing to the company’s success in the music industry.
- Celina Marie Rose Kenyon (36): A photographer known for her work with various artists and events.
- Dominic Damian: A friend of the group, accompanying them on the flight.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) launched an investigation into the crash, revealing several contributing factors:
- Weather Conditions: At the time of the crash, visibility was reported at half a statute mile due to low clouds, fog, and mist. The pilot was operating under instrument flight rules, which are typically used during reduced visibility .
- Runway Lighting and Weather Systems: The runway lights and automated weather alert systems at Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport were not operational. The pilot did not declare an emergency or report any issues before the crash, and it remains unclear if he was aware of the inoperative systems .
- Flight Data Recorders: The aircraft did not have a flight data recorder, and investigators are working to determine if a cockpit voice recorder was present .
The NTSB is examining pilot qualifications, aircraft maintenance records, and environmental factors. A preliminary report is expected in the coming weeks, with a final report anticipated within one to two years.
The crash has deeply affected the music community and local residents. Tributes have poured in from fans and colleagues:
- The Devil Wears Prada: The band posted a heartfelt message on Instagram, stating, “No words. We owe you everything. Love you forever,” in memory of Daniel Williams.
- Sound Talent Group: In a statement, the company expressed devastation over the loss of their co-founder and colleagues, emphasizing the profound impact on the music industry.
- Hannah Ray: Fiancée of Daniel Williams, shared an emotional tribute on Instagram, revealing that the crash occurred on their 14th anniversary. She described Williams as her best friend and the most loving and supportive person she had ever known.
Local authorities and emergency services responded swiftly, evacuating approximately 100 residents and setting up a temporary shelter at Miller Elementary School. The community has come together to support those affected, demonstrating resilience in the face of tragedy.
The San Diego plane crash serves as a somber reminder of the importance of aviation safety and the profound impact such tragedies have on communities. As investigations continue, the memories of those lost—Daniel Williams, Dave Shapiro, Emma Huke, Kendall Fortner, Celina Kenyon, and Dominic Damian—will live on through the lives they touched and the legacies they left behind.
