Dave Shapiro: A Music Agent Remembered After San Diego Plane Crash

Dave Shapiro: A Music Agent Remembered After San Diego Plane Crash

On May 22, 2025, the music world got sad news. Dave Shapiro, a well-known music agent, died in a small plane crash in San Diego. He was 42 years old.

He worked hard for the artists he helped. He changed the way smaller bands go on tour. His death shocked many people in music. Five others also died in the crash. One was Daniel Williams, a drummer from the band The Devil Wears Prada.

Let’s look at Dave’s life, his work, and the crash that ended it too soon.

Dave’s Music Career

Dave loved music. He helped bands grow and reach fans. In 2018, he started a company called Sound Talent Group with two partners, Tim Borror and Matt Andersen.

This company helped bands that didn’t fit into the big music scene. It planned tours for them and got them in front of fans. They worked with groups like Sum 41, Pierce the Veil, Story of the Year, and even pop acts like Hanson and Vanessa Carlton.

Dave wasn’t just about business. He really cared about the people he worked with. He wanted to help them build long careers. In 2012, Billboard named him to their “30 Under 30” list for young leaders in music.

When COVID-19 shut down live shows, Dave helped start a group called NITO. This group stood up for small bands and agents during the hard times.

Flying Was His Other Passion

Dave also loved flying planes. He had more than 10 years of flying experience. He even started a small flight company called Daviation LLC. He often flew his own plane for work and fun.

Sadly, his love for flying played a part in his final day.

What Happened in the Crash

On May 22, 2025, Dave was on a private jet. It left New Jersey, stopped in Kansas, and headed for San Diego. At around 3:45 a.m., while trying to land in heavy fog, the plane hit power lines. It crashed into a home in the Murphy Canyon area.

The crash was bad. One house was destroyed, and several others were damaged. Fires broke out from spilled fuel. All six people on board died. No one on the ground was killed, but some were hurt, and over 100 had to leave their homes for safety.

Daniel Williams Was Also on the Plane

Daniel Williams, who used to play drums for The Devil Wears Prada, also died. He had started working in software but still stayed close with his music friends. Just before the crash, he shared a photo from inside the jet.

His death saddened many fans and friends.

Tributes from the Music World

After the crash, Sound Talent Group shared a message:

“We are heartbroken. Dave was more than a boss. He was a mentor and a friend. We will never forget him.”

Many artists and music workers shared memories of Dave online. They called him kind, real, and someone who truly cared. They said he helped them not just in music, but in life.

The Investigation Begins

Government teams are now looking into what caused the crash. The FAA and NTSB are checking flight records, weather data, and witness reports.

Early reports say fog and low visibility played a role. The plane was registered to Daviation LLC, Dave’s company. It’s not yet known if he was flying the plane that night.

Neighbors say they heard a loud boom and saw fire. Security video and more will help tell the full story.

Why Dave Shapiro Mattered

Dave wasn’t just someone in the music world—he was someone who helped shape it. He fought for artists who didn’t have a big platform. He gave them tours and helped them grow. He made them feel seen and heard.

He also gave back. He taught others, started a flight school, and supported the mental health of his clients. He believed in doing things the right way.

Saying Goodbye

Dave Shapiro’s life was full of passion. In just over 20 years, he changed many lives and helped many careers.

People who knew him say he lived fast and gave his all. His work, his kindness, and his ideas will live on in the music world.

Rest in peace, Dave.