SAN DIEGO — A small private plane crashed into a San Diego neighborhood early Thursday, killing at least three people and injuring eight others while igniting fires and forcing evacuations.
Crash Details and Immediate Response
The crash occurred just before 4 a.m. in the Murphy Canyon community near Sculpin Street and Santo Road. A Cessna 550 twin-jet, headed for Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport, came down, damaging at least 15 homes and multiple vehicles.
- Emergency crews battled fires fueled by spilled jet fuel and downed power lines.
- Approximately 100 residents were evacuated to Miller Elementary School.
- At least five people were hospitalized for smoke inhalation, with three others treated for minor injuries.
Assistant Fire Chief Dan Eddy described a “gigantic debris field” and emphasized the urgency of evacuations.
Victims and Aircraft Information
Authorities confirmed six people were aboard the plane, including:
- Music talent agent Dave Shapiro, 42
- Daniel Williams, former drummer for The Devil Wears Prada
- Two employees of a local music talent agency
The Cessna 550 has a capacity of six to eight passengers. Most occupants on board did not survive, while all injuries reported were on the ground.
Ongoing Investigation and Safety Measures
The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched an investigation. The FAA said the NTSB will lead the inquiry and provide updates as information becomes available.
San Diego Police and first responders continue to secure the crash site. Roads near the area remain closed.
Residents are urged to avoid the site and report any debris or jet fuel sightings to police at 619-531-2000.
Information sourced from:
- San Diego Police Department
- Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
- National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)
