A tragic plane crash has taken the lives of several individuals, including notable figures from the music industry and local community. Among the victims identified late Friday by the San Diego County Medical Examiner was Dave Shapiro, 42, the registered owner of the aircraft and a certified pilot. Shapiro was not only at the controls during the ill-fated flight but was also a respected music executive and co-founder of Sound Talent Group, a prominent music management agency.
Dave Shapiro’s career in the music business was marked by his passion for discovering and nurturing talent. Through Sound Talent Group, Shapiro helped shape the careers of numerous artists, earning a reputation as a visionary leader in the industry. His dual role as both pilot and executive underscored his multifaceted talents and dedication to his passions. The news of his passing has deeply saddened colleagues, friends, and fans alike, who remember him as both a gifted professional and a passionate individual.
Also believed to have perished in the crash is Daniel Williams, 39, a former drummer for the metalcore band The Devil Wears Prada. Williams’ involvement in the accident was revealed through his social media activity just hours before the tragedy. Roughly eight hours prior, Williams posted three Instagram stories, including a striking photo of the very plane involved in the crash, identified by its tail number N666DS. He tagged Shapiro in one post with the caption, “Flying back with @davevelocity,” suggesting the pair were traveling together. Williams’ death is a significant loss to the metalcore community and his many fans, who admired his musical contributions and vibrant energy.
The San Diego County Medical Examiner also identified Celina Kenyon, 36, as one of the victims. Although details about Kenyon’s life remain limited publicly, her identification adds to the growing list of lives cut short in this tragic event. Friends and family remember her fondly, mourning her untimely passing.
Another victim connected to the crash is Kendall Fortner, 24, who was identified by The Associated Press. Fortner worked at Sound Talent Group, the agency co-founded by Shapiro, and was part of the dynamic team behind many artist successes. Her youth and promising career make this loss especially poignant within the music business community.
Dominic Damian, a San Diego resident, was also confirmed as a victim by a family member to local news outlet CBS 8. The community is preparing to honor Damian’s memory with a memorial service scheduled for Monday in Pacific Beach. His loss is deeply felt by those who knew him and the wider San Diego area.
The circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation by authorities, who are working to uncover the causes behind this tragic accident. As the community grapples with the aftermath, the collective grief is palpable. The intertwined lives of these victims—spanning the worlds of music, aviation, and local San Diego life—highlight the profound impact of the tragedy on many different circles.
In the wake of this event, tributes have poured in from across the music industry and beyond. Colleagues, friends, and fans alike remember Dave Shapiro not only for his business acumen but also for his warmth and generosity. Similarly, Daniel Williams’ legacy as a talented drummer and passionate artist is being honored by the metalcore music community.
The crash serves as a somber reminder of how fragile life can be and how quickly circumstances can change. Families and friends are left to mourn these losses, while the broader community reflects on the contributions and lives of those taken too soon. Memorial services and tributes continue, as the city of San Diego comes together to support those affected and celebrate the lives of the departed.