In the early hours of May 22, 2025, a private jet crashed into San Diego Murphy Canyon. The crash resulted in the deaths of six individuals.
San Diego Plane Crash
Among them was Dave Shapiro, 42, a renowned music executive. The Cessna 550 Citation II, owned by Shapiro, was en route from New Jersey to San Diego. At 3:45 a.m., the aircraft hit power lines and crashed into a residential area. Dense fog and malfunctioning airport systems are suspected factors. No fatalities occurred on the ground, but eight residents were injured.
Despite the severity of the crash, no fatalities occurred on the ground. However, eight residents sustained injuries, and approximately 15 homes were damaged, prompting the evacuation of around 100 people from the area.
Victims Identified
The six individuals who perished in the crash have been identified as:
- Dave Shapiro, 42, music executive and pilot
- Daniel Williams, 39, former drummer for the band The Devil Wears Prada
- Emma L. Huke, 25, booking associate at Sound Talent Group
- Kendall Fortner, 24, booking associate at Sound Talent Group
- Celina Marie Rose Kenyon, 36, professional photographer
- Dominic Christopher Damian, friend of the group
Williams’ fiancée, Hannah Ray, shared a tribute on social media.
Dave Shapiro airplane crash
Born on January 11, 1983, in Albany, New York, Dave Shapiro began his career as a drummer for the pop-punk band Count the Stars before transitioning into music representation. He co-founded Sound Talent Group in 2018, representing a diverse roster of artists, including Sum 41, Parkway Drive, Pierce the Veil, and Vanessa Carlton . Shapiro was also instrumental in founding Velocity Records and Velocity Aviation, reflecting his multifaceted interests in both music and aviation.
He represented artists like Sum 41, Parkway Drive, and Pierce the Veil. Deryck Whibley, lead singer of Sum 41, credited Shapiro with revitalizing the band’s trajectory during challenging times .
Investigation and Safety Concerns
The NTSB has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the crash, focusing on factors such as pilot qualifications, aircraft maintenance records, and environmental conditions. Preliminary findings indicate that the pilot was aware of the foggy conditions but did not report any issues or declare an emergency before the crash . The absence of functional runway lights and weather alert systems at Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport is a significant aspect of the ongoing inquiry.
The aircraft did not have a flight data recorder, but investigators are examining whether a cockpit voice recorder was present. A preliminary report is expected in the coming weeks, with a final report anticipated within one to two years .
Community Impact and Tributes
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the music community and beyond. Tributes have poured in from artists, colleagues, and fans, honoring the legacies of those lost. Victor Fuentes Sr., father of Pierce the Veil’s co-founder, expressed profound grief over Shapiro’s passing, emphasizing his pivotal role in the band’s success over the past 18 years .
As the investigation continues, the music industry mourns the loss of a visionary leader and the other talented individuals who perished in the crash. Their contributions have left an indelible mark on the world of music, and their memories will endure through the lives they touched and the art they helped create.
