In an Instagram post featuring photos of Williams and Shapiro, the band wrote: “♥️ no words. We owe you everything. Love you forever.”
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Williams, 39, was part of the band’s original 2005 lineup and remained a key member until 2016. Known for his energetic drumming and foundational role in shaping the band’s early sound, his death has prompted a wave of mourning from fans and fellow musicians alike.
The crash occurred early Thursday morning as a Cessna 550 aircraft, owned by Shapiro, attempted to land at Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport in San Diego. The plane had departed from New Jersey with a fuel stop in Kansas before it hit a power line in dense fog and crashed in a residential area, causing a massive fireball that destroyed homes and set vehicles alight.
Williams had shared a final Instagram story showing himself in the cockpit, joking that he was the “co-pilot now.” Shapiro, 42, was also a trained pilot and a respected music executive who co-founded Sound Talent Group. Two other agency employees also died in the crash.
-Instagram.
While no deaths were reported on the ground, eight people sustained injuries and multiple homes were damaged. Emergency crews evacuated residents as leaking jet fuel intensified the fire.
Tributes to both men continue to pour in. The music community has honoured Shapiro for his industry impact, while fans of The Devil Wears Prada remember Williams for his musical legacy and vibrant spirit. The National Transportation Safety Board is leading an investigation into the crash’s cause.