Who Was Lew Brown?

Lew Brown was a man of vision and drive. Born in Harrogate in 1986, he grew up with a passion for innovation and problem-solving. After earning his degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Manchester, Brown quickly made a name for himself in the renewable energy sector. He co-founded SolVentix Energy, a startup focused on developing cost-efficient wind turbine technology, and by 2019, the company had expanded operations to North America.

Friends and former colleagues describe Brown as charismatic, generous, and endlessly curious. “He was the kind of guy who could walk into a room of strangers and walk out having inspired every single person,” said Joanna Whitmore, a longtime business associate. “He believed deeply in making the world better — not just through clean energy, but by lifting others up along the way.”

Brown split his time between Blackpool and California in recent years, nurturing partnerships, attending conferences, and speaking at universities. His death has left a deep void in both the environmental advocacy world and among those who knew him personally.

“His optimism was infectious,” said his sister, Caroline Brown. “Even when he faced challenges, he always looked for solutions. He was more than a brother — he was my hero.”

Remembering Daniel Williams: A Musician Gone Too Soon

Daniel Williams, whose drumming helped shape the sound of The Devil Wears Prada during the band’s formative years, was also onboard the ill-fated flight. Williams had left the band in 2016 but remained active in music, frequently producing records and collaborating with independent artists.

Originally from Dayton, Ohio, Williams had moved to California in 2018 to pursue broader creative opportunities, including session drumming and music production for film and television.

“He was a force on the drums,” said longtime friend and fellow musician Josh Mattingly. “But more than that, he was kind. He was humble. He made time for people. This loss is beyond words.”

Williams was deeply respected not just for his technical prowess but also for his dedication to mentoring young musicians. He volunteered at music camps and frequently donated instruments to underserved schools. His unexpected death has sparked tributes from around the world, with fans flooding social media with memories, video clips, and heartfelt messages.

“He had a soul you could hear in every beat,” one fan wrote. “You didn’t just listen to his music — you felt it.”

The Crash and Ongoing Investigation

According to flight data reviewed by the NTSB, the aircraft had been airborne for less than six minutes when it abruptly lost altitude. Radar recordings and air traffic control transcripts suggest that the pilot attempted to return to the airport but did not make it back in time.

Neighbors described a terrifying thunderous sound followed by a fiery explosion. “It was like the sky cracked open,” said Lucia Ramirez, a resident of 32nd Street. “The windows shook, and then we saw flames. It was chaos.”

The crash site, which spans parts of two residential blocks, remains cordoned off as investigators comb through debris and analyze flight recorders recovered from the wreckage. While weather conditions were reportedly clear at the time, officials have not ruled out mechanical failure or pilot error.

FAA spokesperson Marcus Jennings stated in a press conference Friday morning: “This was a catastrophic failure of an aircraft shortly after takeoff. We are working diligently to determine all contributing factors. Our hearts go out to the families and friends of the victims.”

International Grief and Response

The tragedy has sparked an outpouring of grief on both sides of the Atlantic.

In Blackpool, where Lew Brown resided, a candlelight vigil has been planned for the evening of May 25. Town officials, local business leaders, and members of the environmental community are expected to attend. “Lew was more than just a successful entrepreneur,” said Mayor Teresa Rawlins. “He was a son of this town, and we grieve this loss as one.”

In the U.S., tributes for Daniel Williams have been especially prominent in the music world. A benefit concert in his honor is being organized in Los Angeles, with proceeds supporting young musicians and local charities he supported.

Both families have issued public statements requesting privacy as they process their grief but have expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of love and support.

A Larger Conversation

This incident also revives a broader debate about the safety and regulation of private aircraft. In recent years, the rise of private charters — often used by business leaders, entertainers, and influencers — has outpaced regulatory reform. Aviation experts have called for a renewed focus on maintenance protocols and pilot certification standards.

“We’ve seen an increase in crashes involving privately chartered jets,” said Dr. Melissa Shaw, an aviation safety analyst. “It raises important questions about oversight and the balance between convenience and safety.”

A Legacy That Lives On

Though their lives ended far too soon, both Lew Brown and Daniel Williams leave behind enduring legacies. Brown’s work in renewable energy continues through his company, now helmed by co-founder Raj Patel, who vowed to “carry forward Lew’s vision with the same spirit and integrity he embodied.” A new solar initiative will be named in his honor.

For Daniel Williams, his musical contributions will resonate for generations. Plans are underway to archive unreleased recordings and publish a retrospective documentary celebrating his artistic journey and influence.

Final Words

As families and friends across the globe struggle to make sense of this unimaginable tragedy, one truth emerges clearly: the loss of Lew Brown and Daniel Williams — and the four others whose names are still withheld — represents not just a personal heartbreak for their loved ones, but a cultural and societal wound that will take time to heal.

In their absence, the people who knew and admired them vow to live more intentionally, love more deeply, and, as one mourner put it, “never take a single moment for granted.”

They were innovators, artists, dreamers — and they are gone too soon.