In tragic news, Daniel Williams — former drummer for metalcore mainstays the Devil Wears Prada — was one of several people killed in a plane crash in San Diego’s Tierrasanta neighborhood early this morning, May 22nd.
Williams had taken to Instagram hours before the accident, posting stories from the cockpit, unaware it would be his final flight.
Also killed was Dave Shapiro, respected music agent and co-founder of Sound Talent Group, who was reportedly piloting the aircraft. Shapiro booked Pierce the Veil, the Acacia Strain, Sleeping with Sirens, Drug Church, August Burns Red, Stick to Your Guns and Parkway Drive, among many other bands.
Everyone on board the plane perished. According to CBS8, the crash destroyed parts of the residential area, damaging at least 15 homes and multiple vehicles.
Williams was behind the kit for TDWP from the band’s 2005 beginnings through their 2016 evolution, playing on all their albums through 2013’s 8:18, as well as 2010’s landmark Zombie EP and 2015’s Space EP.
“We are devastated by the loss of our co-founder, colleagues and friends,” Sound Talent Group commented on the crash earlier this morning. “Our hearts go out to their families and to everyone impacted by today’s tragedy. Thank you so much for respecting their privacy at this time.”
As for TDWP, they wrote simply on social media: “No words. We owe you everything. Love you forever.”