Dog the Bounty Hunter’s stepson, Gregory Zecca, accidentally shot and killed his 13-year-old son, Anthony, in a devastating incident at their Naples, Florida, apartment on the evening of July 19, 2025. This heartbreaking misfire has stunned the Chapmans, fans, and broader public alike. With family voices echoing grief and authorities describing the incident as an “isolated” accident, the community is left wrestling with shock, sorrow, and questions as the investigation continues.
What Happened: A Harrowing Timeline
Police and media outlets report that the tragic shooting occurred around 8 p.m. local time on Saturday, July 19, inside the Naples family residence. Officials from the Collier County Sheriff’s Office and Naples PD have labeled the event a lone accident, confirming that no arrests have been made and no one else was involved New York Post.
Though details remain limited, sources including TMZ characterize the incident as a “freak accident”—an unplanned discharge turning a routine evening into tragedy. With the investigation still open, authorities are examining how a firearm could have discharged unexpectedly and what safety considerations were in place.
Who Is Involved: The Chapman Family in Focus
Gregory Zecca, 38, is the son of Francie Chapman and stepson of famed reality TV bounty hunter Duane “Dog” Chapman, known for capturing fugitives and hosting the A&E show Dog the Bounty Hunter. Gregory, part of Dog’s extended bounty‑hunting team, was handling a firearm in the apartment when the accidental shooting occurred.
Anthony Zecca, the 13‑year‑old victim, was Gregory’s son from a previous relationship. He lived with his father and step-grandparents in Naples—part of a blended, close-knit family. Dog and Francie, who married in 2021 after bonding over shared grief, have repeatedly expressed their devastation, calling it an “incomprehensible, tragic accident” and asking for continued prayers.
Family Reaction: Grief, Prayers, and Privacy
In a joint statement, Dog and Francie shared: “We are grieving as a family over this incomprehensible, tragic accident and would ask for continued prayers as we grieve the loss of our beloved grandson, Anthony.” They emphasized their need for privacy during this intensely painful period.
Past tragedy has shaped the Chapmans. Dog previously lost daughter Barbara in a 2006 accident and his wife Beth in 2019 to throat cancer. The couple’s bond was rooted in shared loss—Francie having also lost a spouse, making this new heartbreak especially bitter.
The Ongoing Investigation: Authorities Respond
Local law enforcement has described the case as “isolated,” indicating no suspicion of foul play or broader threat . Deputies responded swiftly to the 8 p.m. call, confirming one fatality and no other injuries.
Authorities are treating this as a tragic mishap rather than a criminal act. Investigators are compiling physical evidence, gun safety records, and witness statements to reconstruct the event. As they continue their review, no charges have been filed and none are anticipated unless new evidence emerges.
A Legacy Marred by Misfortune: Chapman Family History
Duane Chapman, aged 72, became a cultural icon after turning from a criminal past to a career as a bounty hunter. Famous for the 2003 capture of Andrew Luster, he has captured over 10,000 fugitives and starred in popular reality shows.
But Dog’s personal journey has long included sorrow: the 2006 death of his daughter Barbara, the 2019 loss of wife Beth, and internal family fractures documented in the media. Many fans and supporters express renewed empathy, recognizing a family repeatedly struck by heartbreak in both public and private life.
Broader Context: Gun Safety and Child Welfare
Data from U.S. public health experts shows accidental shootings are a leading cause of injury among children aged 1–19. Gun ownership and familial access to firearms significantly increase the risk of unintended injuries when safety measures lapse.
Studies from the CDC and gun safety organizations consistently advocate safe storage—unloaded guns, locked safes, and parental education—as essentials for preventing accidents. This tragedy underscores the importance of rigorous enforcement and awareness around gun safety in homes. The Sun
Conclusion
The tragic accidental shooting that claimed 13-year-old Anthony Zecca’s life is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of firearm negligence. As the Chapman family mourns, both the public and authorities await the outcome of ongoing investigations while reflecting on critical lessons in gun safety.
Dog the Bounty Hunter, known for resilience in the face of past tragedy, now faces unimaginable grief. Their call for prayers and privacy highlights a family’s desperate search for solace amid sorrow. With the importance of secure firearm practices starkly evident, this heartbreaking event should serve as a wake-up call for communities across America.
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