Former 'Possessed' guitarist Brian Montana killed in police shootout

Brian Montana, a former guitarist for the pioneering death metal band Possessed, was killed in a standoff with police on April 28 in South San Francisco.

The 60-year-old musician died after he allegedly fired multiple shots at his neighbor and later at responding officers. According to the South San Francisco Police Department, officers were called to the 300 block of Arroyo Drive around 6 p.m. after receiving a report of an armed man threatening a neighbor. Upon arrival, officers discovered Montana brandishing a firearm and firing at a nearby residence. Over the course of the next 25 minutes, Montana armed himself with a handgun, shotgun, and rifle, using vehicles and landscaping for cover as he continued shooting at police. Officers returned fire, ultimately striking Montana, who was pronounced dead at the scene.

A resident inside the home Montana had targeted sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to a hospital. Fortunately, no officers were injured during the exchange. In accordance with department policy, the two officers involved in the shooting have been placed on paid administrative leave while the incident is under investigation by the San Mateo County District Attorney’s Office.

Montana, who was an early member of Possessed, had joined the band in 1983 but left before they recorded their debut album in 1985. Possessed, known for helping to shape the death metal genre, expressed their condolences on Instagram, posting a tribute to Montana with the caption "Rest In Peace Brian Montana."

This tragic incident is the second time a member of Possessed has been involved in a shooting. In 1989, lead singer Jeff Becerra was shot during a robbery attempt, leaving him paralyzed from the waist down.

The incident has drawn attention due to Montana’s role in the influential death metal band, and more details, including audio and video footage of the standoff, are expected to be released as part of the ongoing investigation.