In the early hours of Thursday, May 22, 2025, a private jet tragically crashed into the Murphy Canyon neighborhood of San Diego, resulting in the deaths of all six individuals aboard. The aircraft, a 1985 Cessna 550 Citation II, was approaching Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport when it struck a power line in dense fog around 3:45 a.m. local time. The crash caused significant damage, including fires that engulfed at least ten homes and numerous vehicles, leading to the evacuation of over 100 residents. Two people on the ground sustained minor injuries, with one hospitalized. Authorities described the crash site as a “gigantic debris field” and highlighted the intense fires caused by jet fuel runoff.
Victims Identified
Among the deceased were prominent figures in the music industry:
- Dave Shapiro: Co-founder of Sound Talent Group (STG), a leading music talent agency.
- Daniel Williams: Former drummer of the metalcore band The Devil Wears Prada.
The identities of the other passengers, believed to be STG employees, have not been publicly released. The music community is mourning the loss, and tributes have poured in for the victims.
Crash Details
The flight originated from Teterboro, New Jersey, with a stop in Wichita, Kansas, before heading to San Diego. As the aircraft neared Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport, it encountered dense fog, reducing visibility to approximately half a mile. The plane struck a power line and then clipped part of a house in Tierrasanta before crashing slightly north of the Murphy Canyon neighborhood. Several vehicles and ten homes were damaged, with one house being completely destroyed. The homes affected by the crash were military housing
Emergency Response
In response to the crash, over 50 police officers and emergency personnel were dispatched to the scene. Hazardous materials teams were also deployed to manage the jet fuel runoff and fires. A temporary evacuation site was set up at Miller Elementary School, with almost 100 people being evacuated. All but one of the fires were extinguished by 7:37 a.m. local time.
Investigation Underway
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has initiated an investigation into the cause of the crash. A team of eight investigators, along with representatives from the plane’s engine and airframe manufacturers, has been deployed to the crash site. The NTSB plans to recover the wreckage and move it to a secure location on May 24. A preliminary report is expected within two weeks, with a final report anticipated in 12 to 18 months.
Community Impact
The crash has deeply affected the San Diego community, particularly the military families residing in the Murphy Canyon neighborhood. While no ground fatalities occurred, the destruction of homes and the evacuation of residents have left lasting impacts. The incident has also raised concerns about aviation safety, especially during adverse weather conditions.
Previous Aviation Incidents in San Diego
This tragic event adds to a history of aviation incidents in San Diego. Notably, in 2008, a U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18 Hornet crashed into a residential area, resulting in four fatalities on the ground. In 1959, a Navy pilot deliberately crashed his F3H Demon jet into a canyon to avoid hitting a school, sacrificing his life to save others. These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges and risks associated with aviation in densely populated areas.
Conclusion
The crash of the Cessna 550 Citation II in San Diego serves as a somber reminder of the potential dangers associated with private aviation, particularly under challenging weather conditions. As investigations continue, the community remains in mourning, and authorities are working diligently to determine the cause of this tragic event.
