The music industry is reeling from the loss of Dave Shapiro, co-founder of Sound Talent Group and a prominent music agent, who was among those killed in a devastating plane crash in San Diego’s Murphy Canyon neighborhood on May 22, 2025. The fiery crash of a Cessna 550 Citation, which also claimed the lives of at least two other passengers, including former The Devil Wears Prada drummer Daniel Williams, sparked fires that damaged 15 homes and displaced 100 residents. Drawing from reports by NBC San Diego and other sources, Nuzpost explores Shapiro’s legacy, the details of the tragedy, and its impact on the community and music world.
A Tragic Crash in Murphy Canyon
The incident occurred around 3:47 a.m. in dense fog as the private jet, registered to Shapiro’s aviation company, approached Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport. The Cessna 550 crashed into the Murphy Canyon community, a military housing area, striking at least one home, charring its structure, and igniting fires that spread to vehicles and nearby properties. According to the Federal Aviation Administration, six people were aboard the plane, with no survivors reported. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) noted debris scattered across a large area, including plane fragments under power lines and a wing section on a road, underscoring the crash’s severity.
San Diego Fire-Rescue District Chief Dan Eddy described a “gigantic debris field,” with 10 to 15 homes damaged and eight people on the ground sustaining minor injuries. The San Diego Police Department and Fire-Rescue evacuated approximately 100 residents as flames billowed, fueled by spilled jet fuel and downed power lines. The San Diego Humane Society assisted by rescuing and cleaning jet fuel off eight dogs from the crash site, highlighting the community-wide impact.
Dave Shapiro’s Towering Legacy
Dave Shapiro, 42, was a titan in the music industry, co-founding Sound Talent Group, which represented major rock and metal acts like Sum 41, Lamb of God, Pierce the Veil, Hoobastank, Killswitch Engage, and Opeth. His work shaped the careers of countless artists, earning him widespread respect. Shapiro, who also held a pilot’s license, was identified as the plane’s owner, though it’s unclear if he was piloting at the time. Sound Talent Group confirmed the deaths of Shapiro and two employees, expressing profound grief in a statement: “We are devastated by the loss of our colleagues and leader.”
The crash also claimed Daniel Williams, former drummer for The Devil Wears Prada, a band Shapiro represented. The band shared a heartfelt tribute, stating, “Love you forever.” Shapiro’s influence extended beyond artist management; his passion for music and aviation made him a unique figure, remembered for his dedication and charisma. The music community, from bands to fans, has been left grappling with the sudden loss of a key figure whose work amplified the voices of rock and metal.
Community Response and Heroism
The Murphy Canyon crash, occurring in the largest Navy-owned housing neighborhood in the U.S., prompted a swift response from residents and first responders. Neighbor Gilbert Gonzalez risked his life to rescue others, earning praise from authorities. Another resident, Jasmine, told NBC San Diego she was awakened by the crash’s “loud boom” and helped a neighbor evacuate despite tall fences complicating the process. Assistant Fire Chief Dan Eddy noted that military training and quick action by residents likely saved lives, though the destruction was profound, with one home’s roof collapsed and others heavily damaged.
The San Diego Union-Tribune reported that donations are being accepted to support affected families, reflecting the community’s resilience. The NTSB and FAA are investigating the cause, with foggy weather and the pilot’s final words to air traffic control—“I’ll give it a go”—offering early clues to the challenges faced during the landing attempt.
Industry and Community Impact
The loss of Shapiro and his colleagues has sent shockwaves through the music industry, with tributes pouring in for his role in nurturing talent and fostering creativity. The crash’s physical toll—15 homes damaged, multiple vehicles destroyed, and 100 residents displaced—has also galvanized San Diego’s Murphy Canyon community. The San Diego Humane Society’s efforts to aid pets and owners highlight the collective response to this tragedy.
As investigations continue, questions linger about the crash’s cause and its broader implications for aviation safety near residential areas. Times of San Diego noted that the incident adds to a history of airspace issues around Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport, raising concerns about future risks. For now, the focus remains on supporting affected families and honoring the legacies of Shapiro, Williams, and others lost.
Looking Forward
The Murphy Canyon plane crash is a stark reminder of life’s fragility, cutting short the lives of influential figures like Dave Shapiro and Daniel Williams. As Sound Talent Group navigates this loss, the music industry mourns a visionary whose work touched countless lives. Nuzpost extends condolences to the victims’ families and the Murphy Canyon community, which continues to recover from this devastating event.
Nuzpost will provide updates as the investigation into the crash progresses and the music industry reflects on Shapiro’s enduring impact.
