Dave Shapiro, 42, co-founder of Sound Talent Group and a respected music agent, tragically died in a private jet crash in San Diego on May 22, 2025. He was one of six people killed when the Cessna 550 jet struck power lines shortly after takeoff and crashed into a residential area.
The plane had departed Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport around 3:45 a.m. It crashed minutes later, sparking fires and damaging homes. Authorities confirmed two fatalities and eight injuries early on, with around 100 residents evacuated.
Shapiro was also a passionate pilot. In 2020, he proudly shared earning his Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license, calling it “fun” and a milestone. He later founded Velocity Aviation, where he taught flight skills and pursued advanced flying, including aerobatics and BASE jumping.
Sound Talent Group mourned his loss, stating, “Our hearts go out to their families… please respect their privacy.”
As the NTSB investigates, the music and aviation communities remember Shapiro as a driven innovator who chased both his dreams — in the sky and on stage.
