PLANE CRASH UPDATE: Following the recent fiery tragedy that struck a Navy housing area in San Diego, it was revealed that music executive Dave Shapiro, drummer Daniel Williams, and six others were killed in the devastating plane crash.
Watch the video below.
The catastrophic accident destroyed one home, damaged ten others, and forced the evacuation of about 100 American citizens from their neighborhood.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is now investigating the fatal crash that occurred last week, with jet fuel igniting fires throughout the residential area.
The Cessna 550 Citation business jet crashed into the Murphy Canyon neighborhood, a U.S. Navy-owned housing area, causing significant damage and injuring eight people on the ground.
Dave Shapiro, co-founder of Sound Talent Group and owner of the aircraft, was piloting the plane when it went down, possibly after hitting a power line.
San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl described the horrific scene:
“I can’t quite put words to describe what the scene looks like, but with the jet fuel going down the street, and everything on fire all at once, it was pretty horrific to see.”
The aircraft was traveling from Teterboro, New Jersey, stopping in Wichita, Kansas, before heading to San Diego.
Assistant Fire Department Chief Dan Eddy reported that “there’s plane everywhere” at the crash site, highlighting the severity of the impact.
Among the victims was Daniel Williams, former The Devil Wears Prada drummer. The band posted a heartfelt tribute: “No words. We owe you everything. Love you forever.”
Moreover, Sound Talent Group confirmed that three employees were on board the ill-fated flight.
“We are devastated by the loss of our co-founder, colleagues and friends. Our hearts go out to their families and to everyone impacted by today’s tragedy,” the company stated.
Shapiro was well-known for his adventurous spirit and passion for aviation.
He owned a flight school and had previously shared how flying helped him find focus:
“Flying helps me focus and helps me not be distracted by all the nonsense in the world, and whatever’s going on outside the plane kind of doesn’t matter in those moments.”
Beyond his love for flying, Shapiro was a strong advocate for independent musicians and co-founded the National Independent Talent Organization.
He was also recognized in Billboard’s 2012 “30 Under 30” list and represented artists like Hanson, Vanessa Carlton, and Sum 41.
The band Hanson released a statement praising Shapiro’s character:
“Dave was fearless in life, tireless in his work, and the kind of friend you would want on your speed dial. Dave seemed to always be working on a new endeavor or going on a new adventure because he was always excited for a new challenge. We are grateful for the 15 years we knew him.”
In the meantime, authorities are continuing to investigate the crash, and it remains unclear when residents will be allowed to return to their homes.
The incident has devastated both the local community and the music industry, with tributes pouring in from artists whose careers Shapiro helped build.
The tragedy has left a void in the music industry and brought unexpected devastation to a military housing community, as investigators work to determine the exact cause of this catastrophic accident.
