Tragic Private Jet Crash Claims Lives in San Diego

Residential Area Affected by Jet Crash

News Summary

A private jet crash in Tierrasanta, San Diego, has left the community reeling. The Cessna Citation, registered to Daviator LLC, crashed into homes, displacing nearly 100 residents. Music executive David Shapiro was among the casualties. Eyewitnesses reported a loud explosion followed by flames. Authorities are investigating the incident, which has profoundly impacted both the local community and the music industry.

Tragic Private Jet Crash Claims Lives in San Diego

In the early hours of Thursday morning, tragedy struck in Tierrasanta, San Diego, when a private jet crashed into several homes around 4 a.m. The plane, a Cessna Citation with the tail number N666DS, was built in 1985 and was registered to Daviator LLC, a company based in Homer, Alaska.

Details of the Crash

The incident occurred at the intersection of Sample and Salmon Street, shaking the community and leaving devastation in its wake. Reports suggest at least 15 homes were affected, with witnesses recalling a loud bang followed by flames consuming cars in the vicinity. Eyewitnesses noted the chaos caused by jet fuel igniting and overwhelming smoke filling the air.

Valuable Lives Lost

Among those who tragically lost their lives was David Shapiro, a well-known music executive and co-founder of Sound Talent Group. Public records reveal that Shapiro, 42, was not just the manager of Daviator LLC but also had a prolific career in the music industry, operating a record label named Velocity Records. This label was home to popular hardcore bands and showcased Shapiro’s passion for music.

Inside the Jet

Just hours before the crash, Daniel Williams, a drummer for The Devil Wears Prada, posted an image on Instagram, sharing a glimpse of his time in the cockpit with Shapiro, highlighting the close-knit nature of the music community. Details about who was piloting the jet at the time of the crash remain murky, leaving many questions unanswered.

Community Impact

The aftermath of the crash left nearly 100 residents displaced, with neighborhood evacuations ordered to ensure safety. Fortunately, although there were multiple injuries reported, initial reports indicated that no locals were hospitalized. Yet, five members of one family required hospitalization for smoke inhalation, underscoring the serious nature of the incident.

Ongoing Investigation

As the investigation into the crash begins, several agencies, including the FAA and NTSB, are on-site to gather evidence and determine what went wrong. With the NTSB leading the inquiry, residents and loved ones hope for clarity and answers surrounding this unexpected tragedy.

Eyewitness Accounts

Residents described the morning as foggy, which may have contributed to the visibility challenges surrounding the incident. The community is still in shock, trying to come to terms with the significant loss of life and the damage to their homes.

A Community in Mourning

The loss of David Shapiro and his colleagues from Sound Talent Group has sent ripples through the music industry. This agency represents notable artists, including Hanson and Sum 41, and expresses deep sorrow over the loss of their beloved co-founder and friends. The impact of this crash extends beyond the lives lost; it touches the hearts of many in both the local community and the larger music scene.

Final Thoughts

As the investigation unfolds, affected families and the Tierrasanta community will require support to heal from this devastating event. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the unpredictability of life and the fragility of our time together. Our thoughts are with the victims’ families and all those affected.