THE BEAST

South San Francisco, CA – April 28, 2025 — Brian Montana, former guitarist and founding member of the iconic death metal band Possessed, was fatally shot by South San Francisco police following an intense armed standoff that lasted nearly half an hour. The incident, which began over a dispute with a neighbor, ended in tragedy and has shocked both the metal music community and local residents.

Who Was Brian Montana?

Brian Montana was best known as one of the original guitarists for Possessed, a band widely credited as one of the pioneers of death metal. While his time with the band was early in its history, his contribution to the genre helped shape the aggressive and dark sound that defined a generation of extreme metal.

What Happened in the South San Francisco Shooting?

According to The Daily Journal and a statement released by the South San Francisco Police Department, the 60-year-old Montana became involved in a confrontation with a neighbor over tree debris. The situation escalated quickly when Montana allegedly brandished a firearm and began shooting at the neighbor’s house.

Police responded to a 911 call at approximately 5:55 p.m. on April 28. Upon arrival at the scene on the 300 block of Arroyo Drive, officers were met with immediate gunfire. Montana, reportedly taking cover behind vehicles in his driveway, fired multiple weapons at both the neighbor’s home and responding officers.

During the standoff, Montana used at least three different firearms—a handgun, a shotgun, and a rifle—firing from multiple positions while using cars and landscaping for cover. Officers returned fire and eventually struck Montana, who was later pronounced dead at the scene despite life-saving measures.

Was Anyone Else Injured?

One resident sustained a non-life-threatening graze wound and was transported to a local trauma hospital. Fortunately, no officers were injured during the shootout.

District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe confirmed that alcohol was a contributing factor, noting:

“His death is a tragedy, but it's fortunate that nobody else was hit or injured more seriously.”

Ongoing Police Investigation and Public Response

The South San Francisco Police Department, in collaboration with the San Mateo County District Attorney’s Office, is conducting a full investigation. Body cam footage and additional information—including audio and video recordings—are expected to be released in the coming weeks.

Two officers involved in the shooting have been placed on paid administrative leave, which is standard procedure for officer-involved shootings.

Authorities emphasize that the investigation is still active, and all details are subject to change as more evidence is reviewed.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the South San Francisco Police Department.