San Francisco, California — A San Francisco landlord is facing murder and multiple weapons-related charges after prosecutors alleged he carried out a carefully planned, execution-style killing of his tenant in the city’s Sunset District earlier this month.
Authorities say the shocking case involved an alleged ambush, a deliberately set fire and the use of an automatic firearm equipped with a silencer.
Landlord Charged in Tenant’s Killing
The San Francisco District Attorney’s Office announced that 68-year-old Philippe Chagniot has been charged with murder in connection with the death of 58-year-old Eric Bigone, who police identified as his tenant.
The deadly incident occurred during the early morning hours of May 17 on 46th Avenue between Ulloa and Vicente streets.
When officers arrived after receiving reports of gunfire, they found Bigone suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.
Despite emergency efforts by police officers and paramedics, authorities said the victim died at the scene.
Police Allege Elaborate Plan Before Shooting
During a press conference, San Francisco Police Chief Derrick Lew described what investigators believe happened before the shooting.
According to police, surveillance footage allegedly showed Chagniot attempting to disable nearby security cameras before setting a fire on top of a vehicle parked outside the victim’s residence.
Authorities believe the fire was intentionally used to draw Bigone outside.
“When the victim exited his residence to deal with the fire, the suspect shot the victim in the back using an automatic firearm equipped with a silencer,” Lew said. “The suspect then stood over the victim and fired again before fleeing the scene.”
Investigators described the shooting as an apparent ambush and later sought special allegations connected to the manner in which it was allegedly carried out.
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Surveillance Cameras Help Track Suspect
Police said surveillance technology played a major role in identifying and locating the suspect.
Investigators reportedly used nearby cameras to follow Chagniot’s movements before and after the killing.
Authorities allege the footage showed him traveling from his residence to Bigone’s home prior to the shooting and returning afterward.
Police also tracked a bicycle allegedly used during the escape before following the suspect’s movements in a vehicle.
Chagniot was arrested later that same day near the crime scene.
At this time, investigators have not publicly disclosed a motive for the killing.
Multiple Serious Charges Filed
In addition to murder, prosecutors filed several additional charges against Chagniot.
Those charges include assault with an automatic firearm, arson, possession of an automatic firearm, possession of a silencer, and possession of a high-capacity magazine.
Authorities also filed a firearm enhancement allegation and a special circumstance allegation of lying in wait, which could significantly increase potential penalties if he is convicted.
Prosecutors have stated they will seek to have Chagniot held without bail, arguing that he poses a significant public safety risk.
He was scheduled to appear in court at the Hall of Justice on Friday.
Community Reacts With Shock and Sadness
The killing has deeply affected residents throughout the Sunset District.
District 4 Supervisor Alan Wong addressed the tragedy, saying:
“This was a heartbreaking incident for our Sunset community, and I know many neighbors have been deeply shaken by the violence.”
He added, “As someone who represents this neighborhood and hears directly from residents every day, it is deeply upsetting whenever a life is lost to violence in our community. Incidents like this leave a real emotional impact on neighbors, families, and the broader Sunset community.”
At the same time, several neighbors expressed disbelief at the allegations.
“Phil Chagnoit is a great neighbor. He’s a great man,” neighbor Joy Gayle said. “I’ve known him for 35 years. He’s a family man. He was my dentist.”
She later added, “I’m really shocked. We’re all like shocked. It’s so out of character for him.”
Meanwhile, friends remembered Bigone as a loving grandfather, hardworking individual and member of a local band whose loss has left many grieving.
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