Former Possessed Guitarist Brian Montana Dies in Armed Standoff with Police
Former Possessed Guitarist Brian Montana Killed in Armed Standoff with Police
In a tragic turn of events that has left the metal community reeling, Brian Montana, former guitarist for the influential death metal band Possessed, was shot and killed during an armed standoff with police in San Francisco on April 28. He was 60 years old.
The dramatic confrontation reportedly began over a disagreement with a neighbor regarding a tree that spilled branches and leaves into Montana’s yard. When tensions escalated, Montana allegedly opened fire, prompting a swift police response. As officers arrived, Montana continued to shoot at them, leading to a violent exchange that concluded with the musician’s death.
South San Francisco Police Chief indicated that alcohol played a significant role in the incident. "His death is a tragedy, but it’s fortunate that nobody else was hit or injured more seriously,” said District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe in a statement reflecting on the chaos that unfolded.
In a press release detailing the event, the South San Francisco Police Department disclosed that multiple firearms were found in Montana’s possession during the standoff. Officers engaged Montana over a tense 25-minute period, as he fired from different locations, utilizing vehicles and landscaping as cover. After the dust settled, officers approached the scene to find Montana non-responsive; despite attempts to revive him, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The incident shocked those who knew Montana, who was part of Possessed during the early years, contributing to the band’s 1984 demo Death Metal. Although he didn’t record on any studio albums, his raw energy and talent helped forge the early sound of a band that would go on to be a cornerstone of the death metal genre. After leaving Possessed, Montana briefly played in Abnormal, leaving behind a legacy punctuated by his contributions in the underground metal scene.
In response to his untimely death, Possessed took to social media to honor Montana, writing, “Rest in Peace, Brian Montana,” alongside an image capturing his spirit during his time with the band. The news has also ignited discussions around mental health and substance abuse within the music community, emphasizing the pressures faced by artists.
As investigations continue, the South San Francisco Police Department has assured the public that additional information will follow, including video evidence of the confrontation. For now, fans and fellow musicians mourn the loss of a figure entwined with metal’s vibrant, albeit often tumultuous, history.
As the echoes of gunfire fade, the legacy of Brian Montana remains—a reminder of both the brilliance and tragedy that can coexist within the world of rock and roll.
