Three music agency employees perish in tragic San Diego plane crash

In the United States, a private jet crashed into a residential neighborhood in San Diego on the morning of May 22, 2025, resulting in the deaths of three individuals. The jet, which had six people on board, struck at least one home and ignited several vehicles due to the jet fuel. The incident led to the evacuation of around 100 residents and left many suffering from smoke inhalation. San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl described the scene as horrifying, with fire and debris widespread in the area. The private jet was attempting to land at the Montgomery-Gibbs airport during foggy conditions when the tragic crash occurred. The private aircraft was linked to the music agency, Sound Talent Group. Among the deceased was co-founder Dave Shapiro, who owned the plane and was a licensed pilot. Shapiro was also known for owning Velocity Aviation, a flight school, and Velocity Records, reflecting his diverse professional background. The agency expressed deep sorrow regarding the loss, emphasizing their condolences for the families affected by the incident. Emergency services treated several individuals for minor injuries, including one person who sustained injuries while attempting to escape from a window. Rapid evacuations were mandated after authorities arrived at the scene. Witnesses described hearing a loud explosion and witnessing scenes of devastation, including flames engulfing vehicles and homes. Eyewitness Christopher Moore recounted the fear and chaos as families fled, and the emergency responders worked tirelessly to manage the situation. Those affected by the smoke inhalation were treated at local hospitals, adding to the grim toll of the crash. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported that the private jet's flight lasted less than 18 minutes, which raises questions regarding the circumstances leading up to the crash. The weather conditions at the time were foggy, and there were concerns about the pilot's ability to navigate in such visibility. Investigators will likely explore whether a missed approach or diversion was warranted, given the difficulties presented by the weather. This tragic event adds to a series of aviation disasters that have marked the year, reflecting an urgent need for improved safety measures in the airline industry.