A small business jet crashed late at night into a residential neighborhood in San Diego, causing multiple fatalities and widespread destruction.
The Crash
A Cessna 550 jet, attempting to land at Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport despite poor weather conditions, clipped a power line and crashed into the Murphy Canyon military housing area. The pilot, aware of low visibility and a 200-foot cloud ceiling, chose to proceed with landing, saying, “We’ll give it a go.” About 30 minutes later, the plane went down. No distress signal was sent.
Casualties and Damage
Six people were onboard. Authorities believe all were killed. Two deaths have been confirmed, and eight local residents were injured. Homes and vehicles along at least a quarter-mile stretch were damaged or destroyed, with some cars exploding and fires breaking out due to spilled jet fuel.
Acts of Heroism
Residents quickly responded, rescuing neighbors, children, and pets. Many described waking to loud explosions and seeing fire outside. Firefighters raced through thick fog, going door-to-door to evacuate families.
Victims Identified
Music talent agency Sound Talent Group confirmed that three employees, including co-founder David Shapiro, died in the crash. Shapiro was known for representing high-profile rock and indie bands.
Aftermath and Investigation
Scenes of devastation included collapsed roofs, burned vehicles, and lingering fumes of jet fuel. The San Diego Humane Society took in 36 displaced pets, including dogs, a cat, geckos, and a fish tank.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating. The jet took off from Teterboro, New Jersey, with a fuel stop in Wichita, Kansas. Investigators are working to recover the wreckage and analyze flight data. A preliminary report is expected in two weeks, with a full report in 12–18 months.
Officials praised the community's swift actions, calling it a “miracle” that no residents died. Fire Assistant Chief Dan Eddy said, “They did exactly what they nee
ded to help one another.”