May 2025 — San Diego, CA — Daniel Williams, 39, former drummer of the heavy metal band The Devil Wears Prada, has been identified as one of the victims in the tragic San Diego plane crash that occurred early Thursday morning. The confirmation came from his father in a statement to TMZ.
🛩️ The Crash
Williams was among several individuals aboard a Cessna 550 that crashed in the Murphy Canyon neighborhood, a military housing area near Tierrasanta. The aircraft was en route to Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport when it went down at approximately 3:47 a.m. on May 23.
The crash ignited multiple fires, engulfed several cars, and caused extensive damage to nearby homes. Emergency responders, including hazmat and military personnel, worked quickly to secure the area.
“There are multiple cars engulfed, we have jet fuel all over the place,” said San Diego Fire-Rescue Division Chief Dan Eddy.
🥁 Remembering Daniel Williams
Daniel Williams joined The Devil Wears Prada in its early years and became known for his dynamic, aggressive drumming style that helped define the band’s sound. He performed on several of the group’s major releases, including:
- Plagues (2007)
- With Roots Above and Branches Below (2009)
- Dead Throne (2011)
Though he left the band in 2016, Williams remained active in the metal and alternative music scene, working on solo projects and mentoring young artists.
“He was a force behind the kit and a kind soul offstage,” said a former bandmate. “This is an unthinkable loss.”
🕊️ Investigation and Aftermath
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are investigating the cause of the crash. As of now, the total number of fatalities has not been officially released, and authorities are working to identify the remaining victims.
Emergency crews continue to assess the full scope of damage in the affected neighborhood. No residents were confirmed injured at the time of initial reports, though the scene remains active and under review.
Final Thoughts
The unexpected loss of Daniel Williams marks a painful moment for both the metal music community and his loved ones. As tributes pour in online, fans and peers remember a drummer who brought passion, power, and precision to every performance.
By ✍️ Yorlinda Ramìrez - MicuPost Team
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