Florida Tragedy: Dog the Bounty Hunter’s Stepson Gregory Zecca Accused in Accidental Shooting Death of Son

A devastating accident has shattered the family of reality TV star Duane “Dog the Bounty Hunter” Chapman. Authorities in Naples, Florida, are investigating the fatal shooting of 13-year-old Anthony Zecca, reportedly involving his father, Gregory Zecca, Chapman’s stepson. The incident occurred on the night of July 19th, 2025, at a Naples apartment, sending shockwaves through the community and the Chapman family circle.

Representatives for Duane Chapman and his wife, Francie Chapman, confirmed the family’s profound grief in an official statement: “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.” While the Collier County Sheriff’s Office has yet to release specific details or confirm the shooter’s identity publicly, multiple credible sources, including initial reports from TMZ citing law enforcement sources, indicate Gregory Zecca was handling a firearm when it discharged, accidentally striking his son. An investigation into the exact circumstances is actively underway.

The Chapman Family’s Heartbreak and Gregory Zecca’s Role

Gregory Zecca, 34, is the biological son of Francie Chapman (formerly Francie Frane). Francie, known for her work as a Colorado rancher and owner of Erosion Solutions Inc., married Duane Chapman in 2021 after both had lost their previous spouses. This marriage brought Gregory into the orbit of the famous bounty hunter.

• Family Ties: Gregory became Duane Chapman’s stepson through his mother’s marriage. He is reported to have worked alongside Chapman on his bounty hunting team, appearing on Chapman’s newer show “Beware of Dog.”
• Public Persona: Zecca’s Instagram profile describes him as a “Father, Bounty Hunter, Small Business Owner, Podcaster, and Adventurer,” listing Parker, Colorado, as his home base. He also co-hosts the “Beyond the Bounty” podcast, which offers behind-the-scenes insights into Chapman’s world.
• The Tragic Event: The incident unfolded in Naples. Early reports suggest it was an accidental discharge during the handling of a firearm within the residence. Anthony Zecca, Gregory’s 13-year-old son, sustained fatal injuries. Emergency services responded, but Anthony was pronounced dead at the scene. Gregory Zecca has reportedly been cooperating with law enforcement.

Community Reaction and Ongoing Investigation

News of the tragedy spread rapidly, met with an outpouring of sympathy for the Chapman family and profound sadness over the loss of a young life. Social media posts included content warnings due to the graphic nature of the incident. The Collier County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation, meticulously examining the scene, interviewing witnesses, and reconstructing the events leading to the shooting.

• Focus on Safety: While details are still emerging, the incident has reignited conversations about firearm safety, particularly regarding secure storage and handling within homes where children are present. Organizations like the National Safety Council emphasize the critical importance of responsible gun ownership practices to prevent accidental shootings.
• Family Privacy: The Chapman family has requested privacy during this immensely difficult time as they mourn Anthony and navigate the legal aftermath. The official family statement reflects their shock and grief, asking for prayers rather than speculation.

Understanding the Zecca-Chapman Connection

Gregory Zecca’s life became intertwined with the Chapman family legacy following his mother’s marriage to Duane. His involvement in bounty hunting alongside his stepfather and stepsister, Lyssa Chapman, placed him within the public eye associated with the long-running “Dog the Bounty Hunter” franchise.

• Life Before Fame: Prior to his connection with Chapman, Zecca’s background was less public. His mother, Francie, built a life in Colorado focused on ranching and her erosion control business.
• Public Figure: His role on “Beware of Dog” and his podcast significantly raised his profile, framing him as part of Chapman’s operational team and offering his perspective on their work.

Must Know: Key Questions Answered

1. Who is Gregory Zecca in relation to Dog the Bounty Hunter?
   Gregory Zecca is the biological son of Francie Chapman, Dog the Bounty Hunter’s (Duane Chapman) wife. He became Chapman’s stepson when Francie and Duane married in 2021. He has worked with Chapman’s bounty hunting team.
2. What happened in the Florida shooting involving Gregory Zecca?
   Authorities report that on July 19, 2025, in Naples, Florida, 13-year-old Anthony Zecca was fatally shot in an incident at an apartment. Gregory Zecca, Anthony’s father, is reported by multiple sources as the individual handling the firearm that accidentally discharged, killing his son. An investigation by the Collier County Sheriff’s Office is ongoing.
3. Has Gregory Zecca been charged in his son Anthony’s death?
   As of the latest reports (July 21-22, 2025), formal charges have not been announced. The Collier County Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the accidental shooting. Gregory Zecca is reportedly cooperating with investigators.
4. How has the Chapman family responded to Anthony Zecca’s death?
   Duane and Francie Chapman released a statement through representatives expressing profound grief: “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 have requested privacy.
5. Where did the Gregory Zecca accident occur?
   The accidental shooting that resulted in Anthony Zecca’s death took place at an apartment in Naples, Collier County, Florida, on the evening of July 19, 2025.
6. What was Gregory Zecca known for before this incident?
   Zecca was known as a member of Dog the Bounty Hunter’s team, appearing on the show “Beware of Dog.” He co-hosted the “Beyond the Bounty” podcast and described himself online as a father, bounty hunter, small business owner, podcaster, and adventurer.

The accidental shooting death of Anthony Zecca, allegedly involving his father Gregory Zecca, stepson of Dog the Bounty Hunter, represents a heart-wrenching tragedy with far-reaching consequences. As the Chapman family grapples with an unimaginable loss, the focus remains on the young life cut short and the ongoing investigation by Florida authorities. This devastating Gregory Zecca accident underscores the critical importance of firearm safety and responsible handling at all times. Our deepest condolences go out to Anthony’s loved ones. As more verified information becomes available from official sources like the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, the public is urged to rely on those updates and respect the family’s need for privacy in their grief. Stay informed through official channels and hold the family in your thoughts.