In a tragic incident that has shaken the music community, drummer Daniel Williams and music agent Dave Shapiro were among six individuals who lost their lives when a private jet crashed into a San Diego neighborhood on May 22, 2025.
Williams, known for his time with the metalcore band The Devil Wears Prada, shared a series of Instagram stories just hours before the crash.
In one post, he said, "Hey. Hey … you … look at me … I’m the (co)pilot now," and in another, "Here we gooooo." He also posted a picture shortly before takeoff, tagging music talent agent Dave Shapiro, the owner of the plane.
The Cessna 550 Citation jet crashed into the Murphy Canyon area of San Diego around 3:45AM, igniting multiple homes and vehicles.
Assistant Fire Department Chief Dan Eddy stated during a news conference, "We have jet fuel all over the place. Our main goal is to search all these homes and get everybody out right now."
Dave Shapiro, co-founder of Sound Talent Group, was among the victims. The agency confirmed the loss of Shapiro and two employees, Kendall Fortner and Emma Huke.
A spokesman for Sound Talent Group told the BBC: "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. Thank you so much for respecting their privacy at this time."
The Devil Wears Prada paid tribute to Williams on social media, stating, "No words. We owe you everything. Love you forever."
Investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are examining factors that may have contributed to the crash.
Dan Baker of the NTSB noted that the weather alert system at Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport was down due to a power surge prior to the collision. Additionally, the pilot faced foggy conditions before sunrise, and the runway light systems were out of use.
The crash resulted in the destruction of one home and damage to ten others. Eight residents were taken to the hospital for smoke inhalation and non-life-threatening injuries.
San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl described the scene (via ABC News): "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 music community continues to mourn the loss of Williams and Shapiro, both of whom had significant impacts on the industry. Tributes have poured in from artists and fans alike, remembering their contributions and the void their passing leaves behind.