A San Francisco landlord has been arrested and charged with murder in connection with the fatal shooting of his tenant, Eric Bigone, in the city’s Outer Sunset neighborhood. Authorities announced the arrest nearly two weeks after the early morning killing that drew significant attention from residents and investigators.
The San Francisco Police Department said 68-year-old Philippe Chagniot was taken into custody on Wednesday and booked into jail on a murder charge.
Arrest
According to police, Chagniot was arrested following an investigation into the May 17 shooting death of Eric Bigone, 58.
Bigone was fatally shot at approximately 5:30 a.m. as he was leaving for work. Investigators later identified Chagniot as the suspect and placed him under arrest.
Police have not publicly released additional details regarding the evidence that led to the arrest, but court proceedings are expected to provide further information as the case moves forward.
Chagniot was transported to a San Francisco jail and booked on a murder charge, police said.
Victim
Bigone was a resident of the Outer Sunset neighborhood and had been living in a home on 46th Avenue since 2023, according to public records.
Friends and family described him as a hardworking individual who had rebuilt his life after serving prison time related to a fatal drunk-driving crash in 2004.
Following his release, Bigone worked as a laborer for the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission and became involved in community activities.
Those who knew him said he focused on maintaining his sobriety and supporting others facing challenges similar to those he had overcome.
Property Dispute
According to a friend of Bigone who spoke about the case, tensions allegedly existed between the tenant and landlord before the shooting.
The friend claimed Bigone had discussed disputes involving the property and concerns related to relocation. The individual alleged that the landlord wanted to sell the home and did not want to cover relocation expenses.
Authorities have not publicly confirmed whether any property-related disagreement played a role in the alleged crime.
Investigators have not disclosed a motive, and the allegations remain part of an ongoing criminal case.
Investigation
The shooting occurred in the early morning hours of May 17.
According to information cited in reports, security footage captured a person arriving at Bigone’s residence on a bicycle shortly before the shooting. The individual was reportedly wearing a mask and carrying a long gun.
Investigators reviewed evidence gathered from the scene and surrounding area as part of their effort to identify a suspect.
The San Francisco Police Department has not released additional details about the investigation or whether further evidence may be presented during court proceedings.
Case Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Victim | Eric Bigone |
| Age | 58 |
| Suspect | Philippe Chagniot |
| Age | 68 |
| Charge | Murder |
| Date of Shooting | May 17 |
| Time | Approximately 5:30 a.m. |
| Location | Outer Sunset, San Francisco |
| Arrest Date | Wednesday |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing |
Community Reaction
Friends and family members have remembered Bigone as someone who worked to improve his life and help others.
Gerald Cypert, who met Bigone while both were incarcerated at Solano State Prison, described him as a positive influence on fellow inmates and younger offenders.
Friends also recalled his involvement with boxing and community activities. For several years, Bigone volunteered with the United Irish Cultural Center, helping set up an amateur boxing ring for events and programs.
Many described him as dependable, generous, and committed to supporting those around him.
Family Support
Following Bigone’s death, supporters organized a fundraising campaign to assist his son and grandchildren.
According to reports, the GoFundMe campaign established after the shooting has raised approximately $6,600.
Family members and friends gathered recently to honor his memory and reflect on his life.
His mother described him as a loving and generous person who brought positivity to those around him.
Funeral
Funeral services for Bigone are scheduled for June 10 at 10:30 a.m.
The service will be held at Saint Anne of the Sunset, located at 850 Judah Street in San Francisco.
Friends, family members, and community supporters are expected to attend as they remember his life and contributions to those who knew him.
The criminal case against Philippe Chagniot is still in its early stages, and prosecutors will now work to present evidence in court. As the legal process continues, investigators and community members alike continue seeking answers regarding the circumstances surrounding the death of Eric Bigone, whose life and legacy have been remembered by friends and family across San Francisco.
FAQs
Who was Eric Bigone?
A 58-year-old tenant from San Francisco’s Outer Sunset.
Who was arrested in the case?
Philippe Chagniot, the victim’s landlord.
What charge was filed?
Chagniot was booked on a murder charge.
When did the shooting occur?
On May 17 at about 5:30 a.m.
When is Bigone’s funeral?
June 10 at Saint Anne of the Sunset.
