It is with profound sorrow that we announce the untimely passing of Daniel Williams, an exceptionally talented drummer, musician, and beloved friend, who tragically lost his life in a plane crash on May 22, 2025. He was 39 years old.
Known for his groundbreaking work as a founding member and drummer of The Devil Wears Prada, Daniel’s legacy is defined by creativity, passion, and a spirit that inspired countless fans and fellow artists around the world.
What Happened: A Tragic Plane Crash
Daniel Williams was aboard a Cessna 550 Citation II jet when it crashed in the Murphy Canyon neighborhood near Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport in San Diego, California, at around 3:45 p.m. The jet, operated by music agent Dave Shapiro, had departed from Teterboro Airport in New Jersey, with a fuel stop in Wichita, Kansas, before its final leg to San Diego.
Tragically, the crash resulted in a fire affecting parts of a residential neighborhood.
Just hours before the accident, Daniel shared photos from the cockpit on Instagram with the caption, “Here we gooo.” His death marked the abrupt end of a life brimming with promise, creativity, and unwavering passion.
Who Was Daniel Williams?
Born on December 12, 1985, in Dayton, Ohio, Daniel discovered his love for drumming in school music classes, eventually honing his craft throughout high school before joining a local punk band.
In 2005, he co-founded the metalcore band The Devil Wears Prada, where his intense, energetic drumming style quickly earned him acclaim. Known for his minimalist setup and powerful presence on tracks like “Assistant to the Regional Manager” and “Mammoth,” Daniel’s playing left a lasting mark on the metal scene.
His influences included bands like Underoath and Blink-182, with Travis Barker’s style particularly impacting his approach. He also drew inspiration from legendary drummers like Slayer’s Dave Lombardo and Slipknot’s Joey Jordison.
Daniel’s technique was further refined during the recording of Dead Throne (2011), where producer Adam Dutkiewicz pushed him to find his voice as a drummer. His technical skill and intensity made him an icon among fans and peers alike.
Life Beyond Music: A Multifaceted Talent
After departing The Devil Wears Prada in 2016, Daniel pursued a new chapter in the tech industry, eventually becoming a senior software architect at Apple Inc. His drive for innovation and creativity was evident not just in music but in all his endeavors.
Outside of work, Daniel loved surfing, snorkeling, motorcycles, and comics, embodying a zest for life that was infectious to those around him.
Personal Resilience and Legacy
Daniel was also a survivor of the mass shooting in Dayton, Ohio, in August 2019. He was at Ned Peppers Bar when the tragedy occurred but managed to find cover and later shared his story, further revealing his strength and resilience.
Community and Fan Reaction: An Outpouring of Grief and Love
Fans, friends, and fellow musicians worldwide have shared tributes celebrating Daniel’s life and legacy.
The Devil Wears Prada honored him on social media, stating, “No words. We are everything because of you. Love you forever.”
Fans have flooded social platforms with stories about how his music touched their lives, his powerful drumming, and his kindness offstage. Messages of love and support continue to pour in for his family, especially his longtime partner, Hannah Ray.
Memorial and Looking Ahead
Daniel leaves behind Hannah Ray, his life partner of 14 years, his family, countless friends, and an army of fans who continue to find solace and strength in his music and story.
His legacy will live on through his recorded work, his contributions to both music and technology, and the many lives he impacted with his generosity and creative spirit.
Conclusion: A Legacy That Will Echo Forever
Daniel Williams’s journey was one of passion, resilience, and extraordinary talent. Though his time was cut short, his impact will resonate for generations. His drumming, his innovation, and his unwavering love for life will be remembered and celebrated forever.