Dave Shapiro, the co-founder of a music agency whose roster includes the Canadian bands Sum 41 and Silverstein, was among the victims of a plane crash in California early Thursday morning.
Sound Talent Group (STG) confirmed that Shapiro, 42, was one of three of its employees who were killed when a private plane crashed into a San Diego neighbourhood.
“We are devastated by the loss of our co-founder, colleagues and friends,” read a statement released by STG on Thursday afternoon. “Our hearts go out to their families and to everyone impacted by today’s tragedy. Thank you so much for respecting their privacy at this time.”
Shapiro is listed as the owner of the plane and has a pilot’s licence, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. The agency did not share the names of the other victims.
STG was founded in 2018 by Shapiro, a veteran talent agent, alongside Tim Borror and Matt Anderson. The agency’s roster boasts over 400 artists across a variety of genres. In addition to Sum 41, STG also represents Vanessa Carlton, Opeth, Silverstein, Lamb of God, Built to Spill and others.
In addition to his experience as a independent music scene, Shapiro was an avid pilot with more than a decade of flying experience, Billboard reports.
Representatives for Sum 41 and Silverstein did not respond to requests for comment.
Another victim of the crash was Daniel Williams, a former drummer for the American metalcore band The Devil Wears Prada. The band confirmed the news with an Instagram post on Thursday, with the caption: “We owe you everything. Love you forever.”
