On May 22, 2025, a tragic plane crash in San Diego’s Murphy Canyon neighborhood claimed the lives of six individuals aboard a Cessna Citation II jet. The victims have been identified as Dave Shapiro, Emma L. Huke, Celina Marie Rose Kenyon, Daniel Williams, Dominic Damian, and Kendall Fortner. The San Diego Police Department extended its condolences, stating, “Our hearts and thoughts go out to all the families affected by this tragedy, and we stand with the community during their time of need.”
Remembering the Victims.
Dave Shapiro (42)
A prominent figure in the music industry, Dave Shapiro was the co-founder of Sound Talent Group, representing renowned artists like Sum 41 and Pierce the Veil. Before his career as a music agent, he was the drummer for the pop-punk band Count the Stars. Shapiro also founded Velocity Records and Velocity Aviation, showcasing his diverse interests and entrepreneurial spirit.
Emma L. Huke (25) & Kendall Fortner (24)
Both Huke and Fortner were booking assistants at Sound Talent Group. Their dedication and passion for the music industry were evident in their work, and their loss is deeply felt by colleagues and friends.
Celina Marie Rose Kenyon (36)
A talented photographer, Kenyon was known for her creative eye and commitment to her craft. She was a devoted mother who chose to take the private flight to return home early for her daughter.
Daniel Williams (39)
Former drummer for the band The Devil Wears Prada, Williams was a respected musician in the alternative and metal music communities. Tragically, the crash occurred on the 14th anniversary of his relationship with fiancée Hannah Ray, who shared a heartfelt tribute, describing him as her best friend and the most loving person she had ever known.
Dominic Damian
A friend of Dave Shapiro, Damian’s presence on the flight underscores the close-knit relationships among the passengers. His loss is mourned by those who knew and loved him.
The Crash and Investigation
The Cessna Citation II departed from Teterboro Airport in New Jersey, made a stop in Wichita, Kansas, and was en route to Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport in San Diego. At approximately 3:45 a.m., the aircraft crashed into the Murphy Canyon neighborhood, a residential area consisting of U.S. Navy-owned housing. The crash resulted in fires that damaged ten homes and injured at least eight people on the ground.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the crash occurred under challenging conditions, including dense fog and malfunctioning weather equipment at the destination airport. The pilot, unable to receive visibility updates with the tower closed, attempted to land despite poor conditions. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is conducting a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash.
Community Response
The tragedy has deeply affected the San Diego community and the broader music industry. Tributes have poured in from friends, colleagues, and fans, honoring the lives and legacies of the victims. The San Diego Police Department and other local agencies have extended their support to the families and are working diligently to assist those impacted by the crash.