A 68-year-old retired dentist has been arrested in the fatal shooting of a man this month in the Outer Sunset, authorities said.

Philippe Henri Chagniot, 68, was booked into county jail Wednesday on suspicion of murder, according to the San Francisco sheriff’s booking log.

Chagniot allegedly shot and killed Eric Bigone, 58, outside his 46th Avenue home on May 17, according to sources. The home is owned by a family member of Chagniot, according to property records. Chagniot was the victim’s landlord, according to a source with knowledge of the case. 

The altercation began with Chagniot lighting a fire on top of Bigone’s car, Police Chief Derrick Lew said at a press conference. Using a silencer, Chagniot shot Bigone when he came outside to investigate, Lew said, before standing over him and shooting him again.

San Francisco Police Department officers found outside his home at 5:20 a.m. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

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A police bulletin that was leaked online (opens in new tab) said the suspect wore a mask, rode a bicycle, and carried a long gun.

Chagniot was arrested on suspicion of homicide, arson, and possession of an automatic firearm, silencer, and high-capacity magazine.

Family and friends remembered Bigone as a man who had turned his life around after years of struggle. Born and raised in San Francisco, Bigone had overcome alcoholism and a 2005 felony vehicular manslaughter conviction. 

By the time of his death, he had been sober for two decades and was teaching boxing to youth at Ring of Fire Boxing in the Excelsior and coaching people in recovery at Alcoholics Anonymous meetings. He also worked as a laborer for the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission.

“He was a giant of a guy. He was a legendary person,” said one of Bigone’s family members who requested anonymity.

Bigone is survived by his son and grandsons.

“He was remorseful. He changed his life. He said God helped him live, to help people,” said Mark Foti, a friend of 40 years.

Bigone, a singer in a band called Whiskey Business, was known for wearing a fedora, suspenders, and white tank top.

“Just visually, he was always the standout,” said Seamus O’Connell, who grew up with Bigone. “It was like a joke. Are you real? He is.”

Chagniot previously had a dental practice near the Stonestown mall. His state dental license expired in 2024.

Attempts to reach members of Chagniot’s family were unsuccessful.