San Francisco Rental Listed for $6,300 Monthly Amid Landlord's Murder Charge

A three-bedroom rental property in San Francisco's Outer Sunset neighborhood has been listed for $6,300 per month, but its availability is overshadowed by a murder charge against the landlord and a pending wrongful death lawsuit.

Philippe Chagniot, a 68-year-old retired dentist, faces charges of murder for the May 17 shooting death of 58-year-old Eric Bigone outside the home. Prosecutors allege that Chagniot first set a fire on Bigone's car and then shot him twice from behind with a suppressed MAC-10 submachine gun when Bigone went to investigate the fire.

The property is linked to the Chagniot 2007 Family Trust, with Philippe and his wife, Barbara Chagniot, listed as beneficiaries. Dino Bigone, the victim's son, has filed a wrongful death lawsuit, alleging that Chagniot murdered his father to facilitate the sale of the property. A San Francisco judge has temporarily halted the sale pending the outcome of the lawsuit.

Despite the legal entanglements, the home was initially listed for rent on August 22 for $8,000 per month before its price was reduced to $6,300. Broker Renee Engelen, who is representing the Chagniots, confirmed to the San Francisco Standard that she is working to lease the property. Engelen stated that while California law requires disclosure of crimes on a property within two years, the lease agreement does inform prospective tenants of the alleged killing. She declined to provide a copy of the lease, citing privileged information.

One potential renter, who requested anonymity, discovered the home's history through an internet search after noticing the property was owned by a trust. When inquiring about the shooting, she was reportedly told by an employee of the broker that the house had "a bit of history."

The prospective tenant expressed concern that her rent payments might ultimately benefit the family of the accused landlord. "My money would presumably be benefiting this family," she stated.

Neighbors have also voiced their distress. Bridgett, a resident who has lived on the street since 2017, described Bigone as "a great neighbor" and said his killing had "terrorized" the neighborhood. She expressed anger at the prospect of the house being rented out, stating, "That's such bulls***. I'm upset, sick." Bridgett indicated that she and other neighbors plan to inform any new tenants about the shooting themselves.

Gabriella Smith, a resident across the street since 2011, expressed shock at the rental price and noted that workers had been on the property approximately two weeks prior. She advised caution for anyone considering renting from the owners.

The near-rental experience has led the prospective tenant and her fiancé to postpone their home search, preferring to remain in their current Outer Richmond residence.