Local News
San Diego plane crash victims identified as David Shapiro and Daniel Williams
SAN DIEGO, CA — A tragic plane crash early Thursday morning has claimed the lives of at least two individuals, including prominent music industry figure Dave Shapiro and former drummer of the band The Devil Wears Prada, Daniel Williams.
The crash occurred around 3:45 a.m. in the Murphy Canyon neighborhood of San Diego, sending shockwaves through the local community and music industry alike.
The Cessna 550 Citation II aircraft, believed to be traveling from Colonel James Jabara Airport in Wichita, Kansas, was scheduled to land at Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport.
According to Flight Aware, the plane was on approach when it went down in heavy fog, impacting a densely populated residential area near Sculpin Street and Santo Road.
San Diego Fire-Rescue Assistant Chief Dan Eddy described the aftermath as catastrophic. “There was a direct hit to multiple homes,” he said during a press briefing. “Jet fuel ran down the street, engulfing every single car on both sides in flames. We have a massive debris field and widespread fire damage.”
Approximately 15 homes and several vehicles were damaged or destroyed, and more than 100 residents were forced to evacuate.
At least eight individuals sustained injuries, most of them minor.
These victims were treated at an emergency evacuation center established at Miller Elementary School.
One person was hospitalized for injuries sustained while escaping through a window.
Another five members of a family were treated for smoke inhalation. Authorities reported no ground fatalities, although two people from the aircraft were confirmed deceased.
A spokesperson for Sound Talent Group, a music agency co-founded by Dave Shapiro, released a heartfelt statement following the crash:
“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 for respecting their privacy at this time.”
While the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will lead the investigation, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and FBI personnel are also involved. Investigators are working to determine whether the aircraft may have struck power lines before crashing.
Residents near the crash site reported being jolted awake by a loud explosion. Christopher Moore, who lives one street over, described the terrifying moments after impact: “We looked out the window and saw smoke. We grabbed our two kids and ran. On the way out, we passed a car completely engulfed in flames.”
Police officers also rescued three husky puppies from one of the affected homes, transporting them safely away from the blaze in a wagon.
San Diego officials said Sculpin Street, Sample Street, and parts of Santo Road remain closed. Limited access was granted to some residents in the area by Thursday afternoon, but several streets, including Salmon Street and Yorktown Drive, remain inaccessible.
The Murphy Canyon neighborhood is home to many military families and is located near multiple aviation facilities, including Marine Corps Air Station Miramar and Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport.
Eddy emphasized the difficulty of firefighting and rescue operations due to the dense fog present at the time of the crash. “Visibility was extremely limited—you could barely see in front of you,” he said.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities are urging anyone who locates aircraft debris or jet fuel remnants to call the non-emergency number at 619-531-2000.
This tragic incident has left a community grieving and a music industry mourning the loss of influential voices. Further updates will be provided as new details emerge.
It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Deputy Sheriff Carl “Little Chief” Jensen, a deeply respected and dedicated member of the Little River County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputy Jensen was found deceased earlier this evening after he did not report for his scheduled shift.
Deputy Jensen was more than a colleague—he was a cherished brother in uniform, a trusted protector of the community, and a steadfast public servant whose presence will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege of working alongside him.
Carl’s journey into law enforcement was driven by a passion to protect those who could not protect themselves.
After completing college, he began his career with Adult Protective Services, investigating allegations of abuse and exploitation in state hospitals, group homes, and home health care settings.
It was during one such case—uncovering the truth behind a complex exploitation investigation—that Carl realized his calling. “I got bit by the law enforcement bug that day,” he once said. “I wanted to help protect and bring justice to those who need it.”
Throughout his career, Deputy Jensen demonstrated extraordinary empathy, integrity, and resilience. He often reflected on the emotional weight of his work, especially when responding to calls on what could be the most difficult days in people’s lives.
“Sometimes, people don’t realize that we’re there to help everyone involved,” he shared. “Even on what could be their worst day, I can do my best to make it better—or at least keep them calm.” His compassion and humanity set an example for us all.
Our deepest condolences and unwavering support go out to Deputy Jensen’s family during this incredibly painful time.
We ask the community to join us in keeping his loved ones and our department in your thoughts and prayers as we grieve this heartbreaking loss.
Deputy Carl Jensen’s legacy of service, kindness, and courage will never be forgotten.
We are grateful for his life, his dedication, and the profound impact he had on those he served and served with.