Tragedy in Murphy Canyon – but miracles too

The investigation continues today into why a Cessna 550 plunged into a Murphy Canyon neighborhood, killing the six people aboard the plane, yet, miraculously, no one on the ground.

A mighty crash preceded cries of “fire!” that rang out along Salmon Street, sending residents fleeing and prompting firefighters, police and federal authorities to rush in among the rows of military housing.

We’ve just started to learn about some of the lost, who were connected to a local talent agency, including co-founder Dave Shapiro. As friends said of one victim, “no words … love you forever.”

Our crash coverage includes two slideshows of photos that depict the destruction in Murphy Canyon, along with stories about the region’s crowded airspace and how the military experience of residents helped save lives.

A San Diego city councilmember said recovery will take “a long, long time,” but not just for those who live in homes around Salmon Street. Our thoughts are with the aviation community and all those who are grieving.

One more story you shouldn’t miss  – Pope XIV appointed his first U.S. bishop, right here in San Diego. And in another first, that decision made Michael Pham the first U.S. bishop with Vietnamese roots to lead a diocese.