SAN DIEGO — Early Thursday morning, a tragic plane crash in Tierrasanta has resulted in significant loss of life and extensive damage to the local community.
The plane, a Cessna Citation built in 1985 with the tail number N666DS, is owned by Daviator LLC, an Alaska-based limited liability company managed by 42-year-old David Shapiro. Shapiro, a certified flight instructor since 2010, operated an aviation business in El Cajon and was well-known in the music industry as a co-founder of Sound Talent Group.
Sound Talent Group confirmed the loss of three employees in the crash, including Shapiro himself. The agency has represented notable artists such as Hanson, Sum 41, and Vanessa Carlton. "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 agency expressed in a heartfelt statement.
Eyewitness accounts reveal that Daniel Williams, former drummer for The Devil Wears Prada, also tragically lost his life in the incident. Just hours before the crash, Williams shared several Instagram posts showcasing the aircraft and his excitement about the flight with Shapiro. The circumstances surrounding who was piloting the aircraft at the time of impact remain unclear.
Officials indicated that the crash occurred around 4 a.m., impacting at least 15 homes within the military housing area. Despite reports of injuries, authorities stated that no residents needed hospital transport. However, nearly 100 residents have been evacuated as first responders assess the damage.
- At least multiple fatalities confirmed for those aboard the plane, with federal authorities suggesting no survivors.
- The crash occurred shortly before landing at Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport, where foggy weather conditions and a malfunctioning weather system may have contributed to the tragedy.
- The flight originated from Teterboro Airport in New Jersey, with a stop for fuel in Wichita, Kansas.
Witnesses recall a scene of chaos, with jet fuel spewing down the streets, igniting several parked vehicles and homes. Residents, many of whom are military families, were awakened by an ominous rumble and subsequent explosions, which left a scarred neighborhood littered with debris and damaged properties.
San Diego Fire Department officials described the extensive debris field, asserting that the consequences of such a crash ripple through the surrounding community. "When you have something that large coming in with that amount of speed, you're going to have a lot of throw that goes every direction," said SDFD Assistant Chief Dan Eddy.
Federal investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have begun their inquiry into the crash. Initial reports indicate that the pilot had been concerned about the weather conditions prior to landing and expressed skepticism about relying on outdated data from another airport.
As recovery efforts continue, local officials strive to maintain community support. Neighborhood residents came together to assist neighbors in evacuating after the crash, demonstrating the strength often seen within military communities during times of crisis. The damaged area, primarily made up of single-family homes and townhomes, will begin the cleanup process in cooperation with the military housing management group.
Conclusion
In the wake of this tragic incident, the music industry mourns the loss of a prominent figure while the Tierrasanta community begins the arduous process of recovery and rebuilding. The investigation into the causes of the crash will likely unfold over the coming weeks, with many awaiting answers regarding the tragic loss of life.
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