Celebrity Family Hit by Unthinkable Tragedy
Gregory Zecca, stepson of famed bounty hunter Duane “Dog the Bounty Hunter” Chapman, faces life in prison after allegedly shooting his 13-year-old son dead while drunk and handling a gun recklessly— a stark reminder that personal responsibility with firearms saves lives.
Story Highlights
- Gregory Zecca, 39, arrested February 3, 2026, for aggravated manslaughter after fatally shooting son Anthony, 13, on July 19, 2025, in Naples, Florida.
- Zecca consumed alcohol at a bar, then alcohol and marijuana at home while watching UFC, repeatedly handling his Sig Sauer P365 handgun in his son’s presence.
- Sheriff calls tragedy “heartbreaking and preventable,” following six-month probe revealing negligence beyond initial “accidental” claims.
- Anthony was grandson of Duane Chapman and wife Francie Frane; family grieves but faces criminal charges head-on.
- Arraignment set for March 2, 2026; Zecca in custody with no lawyer listed as of February 4.
The Fatal Incident Unfolds
On July 19, 2025, Collier County deputies rushed to a Naples apartment after a frantic 911 call screaming “Dad shot son.” They found Gregory Zecca, 39, performing CPR on his bleeding 13-year-old son, Anthony Zecca, who died at the scene. A Sig Sauer P365 9mm handgun lay on the kitchen island. Zecca wore an empty holster, and a witness confirmed the firearm belonged to him. The call labeled it “accidental,” but facts told a different story.
Impairment and Reckless Handling Revealed
Zecca spent hours drinking at a local bar before buying more alcohol. At a friend’s home, he continued with alcohol and marijuana while watching UFC fights with Anthony. Witnesses saw Zecca repeatedly handle the loaded handgun around the child. The gun discharged, killing Anthony. Forensics, subpoenas, and interviews exposed impairment and negligence. Sheriff Kevin Rambosk praised detectives’ exhaustive six-month investigation that uncovered these details.
Arrest and Family Ties to Celebrity
Collier County Sheriff’s Office executed a warrant at the same Naples apartment on February 3, 2026, arresting Zecca. Charges include aggravated manslaughter of a child with a firearm and using a firearm under alcohol influence, carrying potential life sentences. Zecca is Francie Frane’s son from her late husband; Francie married Duane “Dog the Bounty Hunter” Chapman in 2021. Their grandson Anthony’s death devastates the family. A July 2025 statement called it an “incomprehensible tragic accident,” requesting prayers.
Chapman’s reality TV fame from bounty hunting shows (2004-2012) draws attention, but Sheriff Rambosk stresses accountability. “Heartbreaking and preventable,” he said, commending the probe. Naples, under strict Florida firearm laws, now spotlights risks of impaired gun handling near children. No prior incidents tie to Zecca, though Chapman’s family history includes legal issues unrelated here.
Dog the Bounty Hunter’s stepson arrested after 13-year-old son’s fatal shootinghttps://t.co/Nh1fchjvU2
— Spreading Fox News (@SpreadFoxnews) February 5, 2026
Legal Road Ahead and Broader Lessons
Zecca remains in custody awaiting March 2, 2026, arraignment; no lawyer appears as of February 4. Conviction could mean life behind bars. The case shifts from accident to criminal negligence, setting potential precedents for Florida manslaughter in impaired firearm scenarios around minors. Communities grieve with the family while law enforcement prioritizes safety. Conservatives know: Guns don’t kill—irresponsible, impaired adults do. True Second Amendment defense demands sobriety, training, and family vigilance to protect our kids.
Short-term, Chapmans and Zeccas endure intensified grief amid charges. Long-term, heightened awareness pushes parental responsibility. Naples residents discuss gun safety; minimal economic ripple, but social emphasis on preventing such horrors grows. Celebrity scrutiny reinforces that fame offers no shield from consequences. Sheriff holds power; media amplifies, but justice follows facts.
Sources:
Dog the Bounty Hunter’s Stepson Arrested After 13-Year-Old Son’s Fatal Shooting
Dog the Bounty Hunter s stepson arrested for allegedly shooting teenage son dead Florida
