San Diego, CA – May 24, 2025 — American metalcore band The Devil Wears Prada is mourning the loss of its former drummer, Daniel Williams, who tragically died in a private jet crash near Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport in San Diego, California. Also confirmed dead in the crash was prominent music agent Dave Shapiro, known for his work with numerous heavy music acts.
In a heartfelt statement shared via social media, the band expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Williams, who was a founding member and performed with the group for over a decade.
“We are at a loss for words. Our hearts are broken over the passing of our brother and friend, Daniel Williams,” the band wrote. “He was a crucial part of this band’s early history and legacy. Our thoughts are with his family, his loved ones, and all who had the honor of knowing him.”
Williams was with The Devil Wears Prada from its inception in 2005 until his departure in 2016. His drumming helped define the band’s early sound on albums such as Plagues (2007), With Roots Above and Branches Below (2009), and Dead Throne (2011), albums that helped shape the landscape of metalcore in the late 2000s and early 2010s.
The crash occurred on Thursday afternoon when a privately operated jet, registered to an entertainment firm associated with Shapiro, experienced mechanical failure shortly after takeoff. Authorities have confirmed that both Williams and Shapiro were on board and did not survive. Investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing.
Dave Shapiro, co-founder of Sound Talent Group, was a well-known figure in the rock and metal scenes, having represented artists including A Day to Remember, Motionless in White, and The Ghost Inside. His passing has also prompted tributes from across the industry.
Many artists and fans have taken to social media to express grief and share memories of both Williams and Shapiro, celebrating their contributions to music and the connections they fostered.
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