According to NBC News, the small aircraft flew out from New Jersey on Wednesday and stopped to refuel in Kansas before continuing to the West Coast for its final destination in San Diego. The plane reportedly struck a power line two miles south of the airport before crashing into the nearby residential area. The crash “caused the destruction of multiple homes in the military housing area and prompted several cars to catch fire,” per the outlet. The Associated Press reports that no one in the neighborhood died, but eight were taken to the hospital for smoke inhalation and non life-threatening injuries. There were six people aboard the plane, and though the investigation and clean-up is ongoing authorities believe there are no survivors.
“I can’t quite put words to describe what the scene looks like, but with the jet fuel going down the street, and everything on fire all at once, it was pretty horrific to see,” San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl said (via The AP).
Sound Talent Group confirmed that its co-founder, Dave Shapiro, and two other employees were among the casualties of the crash (per The AP). The company represents numerous artists including Vanessa Carlton, Sum 41, and Hanson. “We are devastated by the loss of our co-founder, colleagues and friends,” the company said in a statement. “Our hearts go out to their families and to everyone impacted by today’s tragedy.”
Williams formerly served as the drummer of the band The Devil Wears Prada. His bandmates paid tribute in a post to social media, which read, “No words. We owe you everything. Love you forever.”
