When a Cessna Citation II crashed into San Diego’s Tierrasanta neighborhood on May 22, it left a trail of devastation: six people dead, eight others injured, and at least ten homes damaged. Now, we know the names of those lost—and the stories behind them.
Among the victims: a legendary music agent, two rising industry assistants, a beloved drummer, a photographer and mother, and a close friend who never expected the flight to be his last.
See also: San Diego Plane Crash: The Tragedy Captured in Devastating Photos
The Victims of the San Diego Plane Crash
Dave Shapiro, 42, was the co-founder of Sound Talent Group and a major force in the music industry. He booked for artists like Sum 41, Vanessa Carlton, and Lamb of God. He also piloted the plane.
Emma Lynn Huke, 25, worked as a booking assistant at Sound Talent Group. Friends and colleagues described her as sharp, driven, and endlessly kind. She was passionate about live music and known for her dedication behind the scenes—helping emerging bands find their spotlight.
Kendall Fortner, 24, was also a booking assistant at Sound Talent Group. She brought warmth and precision to every project she touched. Fortner was building a name for herself in the industry with a reputation for hustle, heart, and a bright future ahead.
Daniel Williams, 39, was best known as the former drummer for metalcore band The Devil Wears Prada. Hours before the crash, he posted from the cockpit on Instagram.
Celina Marie Rose Kenyon, 36, was a photographer and mother returning from a creative trip supporting friends. Her family described her as the heart of their world.
Dominic Damian, 41, was a close friend of Shapiro and joined the group on the cross-country trip.
The six boarded the flight from Teterboro, New Jersey, on Wednesday night. After a fuel stop in Wichita, the plane was heading toward Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport when it clipped high-tension power lines and crashed just before 4 a.m. All six on board were killed instantly. Fires spread to nearby homes, displacing dozens.
See also: Small Plane Crashes onto Tri-Rail Tracks in Boca Raton, Shutting Down I-95
A Community in Shock
Shapiro’s company, Sound Talent Group, confirmed the deaths in a statement:
“We are devastated by the loss of our co-founder, colleagues and friends. Our hearts go out to their families and to everyone impacted by this tragedy.”
Williams’s band posted a tribute: “No words. We owe you everything. Love you forever.”
Neighbors described the crash as sounding like a bomb. First responders evacuated about 100 residents. The National Transportation Safety Board is still investigating the cause.
