A private plane crash in San Diego claimed the lives of former The Devil Wears Prada drummer Daniel Williams and renowned music executive Dave Shapiro. The crash occurred early Thursday morning, May 22, when their Cessna 550 jet went down in a fog-covered residential area near Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport. Authorities confirmed multiple fatalities and significant property damage.
Daniel Williams, best known for his work with metalcore band The Devil Wears Prada from 2005 to 2016, had recently transitioned to a new chapter in his life. Just days before the crash, he announced on social media that he had accepted a software engineering role at Apple, leaving behind nearly eight years at GoPro. In a chilling twist, Williams posted photos from inside the cockpit on Instagram just before the crash, jokingly captioning one with, “I’m the (co)pilot now.” He did not hold a pilot’s license.
Dave Shapiro, 42, a pivotal figure in the heavy music scene, was the co-founder of Sound Talent Group and a passionate advocate for independent artists. A licensed pilot and the registered owner of the downed aircraft, Shapiro was instrumental in shaping the careers of countless bands, including Sum 41, Pierce the Veil, and Parkway Drive. Shapiro was known not only for his sharp business acumen but also for his genuine passion for music and aviation.
Sound Talent Group confirmed that Shapiro and two other employees were on board and perished in the crash. Tributes have poured in across social media and the industry, describing Shapiro as warm, visionary, and a true friend to artists. Sum 41’s Deryck Whibley credited him with helping the band through a difficult period and said Shapiro’s opinion was one he deeply valued.
Shapiro, a straight-edge hardcore enthusiast turned industry heavyweight, was also a certified airline transport pilot, owner of a flight school, and founder of Velocity Records. His adventurous spirit was reflected in everything from glacier landings in Alaska to base-jumping. He and his wife, Julia, shared a life built around exploration, often flying between San Diego and their home in Homer, Alaska.
The crash, which took place in one of the largest military housing neighborhoods in the U.S., damaged at least ten buildings and multiple parked vehicles. While the National Transportation Safety Board continues to investigate the cause, the tragedy has left an unmistakable void in the music community.
In a brief yet heartfelt post, The Devil Wears Prada wrote of Williams: “♥️ no words. We owe you everything. Love you forever.”
The deaths of Daniel Williams and Dave Shapiro mark a devastating loss for the rock and metal scenes, and a solemn reminder of the fragility of life, even for those who soar the highest.
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