THE BEAST

In a deeply unsettling incident that has rocked the heavy music community, a small plane crash in San Diego has reportedly claimed at least two lives, including that of Daniel Williams , the former drummer for metalcore stalwarts The Devil Wears Prada .

The news broke through a post by American Mosh Pits , a popular Facebook page known for covering hardcore and metal scenes. According to the post, the aircraft was owned by David Shapiro , a figure involved in the music industry. The crash occurred overnight, though the specific time and exact location have yet to be officially confirmed.

What We Know So Far

Details remain limited at this time. Authorities have not yet released a full manifest of passengers, leaving the total number of casualties and survivors uncertain. However, the death of Daniel Williams has sent shockwaves through the metal community, where he was a beloved and respected musician.

Williams played a key role in shaping The Devil Wears Prada’s sound during their formative and most commercially successful years, contributing to fan-favorite albums such as With Roots Above and Branches Below and Dead Throne before departing the band in 2016. His drumming was not only technically proficient but emotionally resonant—perfectly complementing the band's blend of aggression and melody.

A Loss Felt Across the Scene

Social media has been flooded with tributes from fans, fellow musicians, and industry professionals mourning the loss of a man whose work helped define an era of modern metalcore. Many remember him not only for his musicianship but also for his humility and drive.

The music community now waits anxiously for more information regarding the crash and the others who may have been on board.

Ongoing Investigation

Local authorities and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are expected to investigate the cause of the crash. It is not yet known whether weather, mechanical failure, or other factors played a role.

As this story continues to develop, American Mosh Pits and other outlets will be sharing updates.

Our thoughts are with the families, friends, and fans affected by this tragedy.
Daniel Williams’ contributions to the heavy music world will never be forgotten. Rest in power.