Stepson of Dog the Bounty Hunter Could Face Life for Son’s Shooting
Duane “Dog the Bounty Hunter” Chapman’s stepson, Gregory Zecca, faces severe legal consequences following the tragic shooting of his son, Anthony. The incident occurred in their Naples, Florida home in July 2025. Anthony, just 13 years old, was fatally shot while the family was reportedly watching a UFC fight.
Legal Charges and Circumstances
Zecca, 39, has been charged with aggravated manslaughter of a child with a firearm. According to the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, his actions could lead to a life sentence if he is convicted. Authorities revealed that alcohol played a significant role in the incident, as Zecca had reportedly consumed alcohol over several hours before the shooting.
Details of the Incident
On the day of the shooting, Zecca allegedly handled a firearm in front of his son, practicing drawing it and dry-firing. Initially, the firearm was made safe by removing its magazine, but it was later reloaded before the tragic event unfolded. A single shot struck Anthony, resulting in his untimely death.
- Incident date: July 2025
- Location: Naples, Florida
- Victim: Anthony Zecca, aged 13
- Charges against Gregory Zecca: Aggravated manslaughter
- Possible sentence: Life in prison
Investigation Insights
The Sheriff’s Office conducted thorough investigations, including witness statements and forensic testing. Police officers who arrived at the scene noted the smell of alcohol on Zecca and observed marijuana in plain view. Toxicology reports indicated that his blood-alcohol concentration was approximately 0.116, above Florida’s legal limit of 0.08.
Following the incident, Zecca was placed on a psychiatric hold due to his overwhelming grief, as confirmed by a family representative. He was reportedly under observation for 72 hours, reflecting his mental state after the tragedy.
Public Reactions and Family Statements
In a statement, Dog Chapman and his wife, Francie, expressed their sorrow. They called the event a “tragic accident” and requested prayers for their family during this difficult time. Zecca also temporarily disabled his social media account shortly after the incident, where he had shared memories of his son, including moments spent together at a shooting range.
This incident sheds light on the critical importance of firearm safety, particularly around children. The heartbreaking circumstances surrounding Anthony’s death serve as a reminder of the potential dangers associated with firearms, especially when consumed under the influence of alcohol.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, support is available. You can call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org for assistance.
