San Francisco, California — A San Francisco landlord is facing murder charges and a civil lawsuit after being accused of carrying out a deadly ambush against a longtime tenant during a dispute over a rental property.
The allegations stem from the death of Eric Bigone, 58, who was fatally shot outside his residence in May. Prosecutors allege the killing was carefully planned, while a lawsuit filed by Bigone’s son claims the motive was tied to efforts to remove the tenant from the property so it could be sold.
The criminal charges and civil complaint paint a disturbing picture of a conflict that allegedly escalated from eviction-related disputes to deadly violence.
Lawsuit Claims Landlord Wanted Tenant Out
According to the complaint filed by Bigone’s son, landlord Philippe Chagniot had been attempting to remove Bigone from the rental property for months.
The lawsuit alleges Chagniot claimed he intended to use California’s Ellis Act process, which can allow property owners to remove units from the rental market under specific circumstances.
However, the complaint argues that no genuine effort was made to complete that process. Instead, the lawsuit alleges the landlord repeatedly pressured Bigone to leave because he wanted to sell the property.
Court documents claim that between January and May, Bigone and his son were subjected to repeated threats and harassment designed to force them out of the residence.
The complaint further alleges that when those efforts failed, the situation took a deadly turn.
Family Alleges Deadly Ambush Was Planned
According to the lawsuit, Chagniot allegedly carried out a carefully planned attack during the early morning hours of May 17.
The complaint alleges he dressed in dark clothing, concealed his identity, and traveled to the property on a bicycle while armed with a weapon equipped with a silencer.
The lawsuit claims cameras in the area were vandalized before a fire was allegedly set on top of Bigone’s vehicle parked outside the home.
According to the allegations, the fire was intended to lure Bigone outside. When Bigone exited the residence to investigate and extinguish the flames, the complaint alleges he was shot and killed.
Authorities have charged Chagniot with homicide, possession of a silencer, possession of a high-capacity magazine, and special circumstances involving lying in wait.
The allegations outlined in the civil lawsuit remain claims that have not been proven in court.
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Son Files Civil Lawsuit Seeking Damages
In addition to the criminal case, Bigone’s son has filed a civil action against Chagniot and his wife.
The complaint alleges that after the shooting, the couple contacted him to offer condolences while also asking about his plans regarding the property.
Attorney Steve MacDonald, who represents Bigone’s son, described those allegations as particularly troubling.
“It’s extraordinarily callous,” MacDonald told local media. “It reminds me of ‘The Sopranos.’ Show up at funerals and offer condolences.”
The lawsuit seeks compensatory damages, punitive damages, and other relief. An attorney representing Chagniot and his wife has not publicly responded to the allegations contained in the civil complaint.
Criminal Case Continues
The criminal proceedings against Chagniot remain ongoing. According to court records, he remains in custody while awaiting future hearings.
Authorities have not released additional information regarding evidence expected to be presented during upcoming court proceedings.
As both the criminal prosecution and civil lawsuit move forward, Bigone’s family continues seeking accountability while remembering a loved one whose life was cut short.
The case has also drawn attention to disputes between landlords and tenants and the tragic consequences that can occur when conflicts escalate beyond legal channels.
What are your thoughts on this case? Do you believe stronger protections are needed for tenants involved in property disputes? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
