Tragic Loss of Music Industry Leader and Sound Talent Group Co-Founder Dave Shapiro in California Plane Crash

In a heartbreaking incident reported by NBC News, a small aircraft tragically crashed into a residential area in the Murphy Canyon region of San Diego earlier today, May 22. This devastating event led to significant destruction in the neighborhood, resulting in multiple structures sustaining damage and several homes and vehicles catching fire due to the impact.

The aircraft involved in this tragic accident has been identified as a Cessna 550 private jet, which was registered to Daviator LLC, a company based in Alaska. Reports indicate that Shapiro was the sole employee and manager of this LLC, and records from the FAA reveal that he obtained his certification as a flight instructor back in 2010, according to CBS 8.

The ill-fated jet had taken off from Teterboro Airport in New Jersey the previous evening, and the crash occurred around 4 AM local time. The aftermath prompted the evacuation of several neighborhoods nearby, primarily due to the fires and the spillage of jet fuel resulting from the crash.

In an official statement, Sound Talent Group confirmed the tragic news that 42-year-old Shapiro had lost his life in the plane crash. The company expressed their profound sorrow, stating, “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.”

NBC San Diego has been providing ongoing updates from the crash site. Their reports indicate that the San Diego Fire-Rescue has confirmed two fatalities thus far, including Shapiro. Additionally, The Devil Wears Prada announced on social media that their former drummer, Daniel Williams, was also a victim of this tragic incident.

READ MORE: Former The Devil Wears Prada Drummer Daniel Williams Dies in San Diego Plane Crash

The roster of Sound Talent Group includes renowned artists such as Pierce the Veil, Lamb of God, I Prevail, Sum 41, Beartooth, Movements, Ice Nine Kills, Killswitch Engage, Motionless In White, In This Moment, Parkway Drive, Black Label Society, and many others, showcasing their influence in the music industry.

In the wake of this tragedy, numerous musicians and industry professionals have taken to social media platforms to share heartfelt tributes to Shapiro. Below, we highlight some of these touching messages from his peers.

Loudwire extends our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Shapiro during this incredibly difficult time.

This story is still developing, and further updates will follow.

Vinny Mauro (Motionless in White)

Telle Smith (The Word Alive)

Ryan Kirby (Fit for a King)

State of the Scene Podcast

The Gunz Show