13-YEAR-OLD GRANDSON OF DUANE “DOG” CHAPMAN ACCIDENTALLY SHOT AND KILLED BY HIS FATHER
NAPLES, FL — A devastating tragedy has rocked the family of reality TV icon Duane “Dog” Chapman, after his 13-year-old grandson, Anthony Zecca, was accidentally shot and killed by his father over the weekend in Naples, Florida.
The fatal shooting occurred on the evening of Saturday, July 19, at an apartment residence in Naples. According to the Naples Police Department, officers responded to an emergency call just after 8:00 p.m. When they arrived at the scene, they found young Anthony suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite urgent life-saving efforts, the boy was pronounced dead shortly after.
The shooter was identified as Gregory Zecca, Anthony’s father and the stepson of Duane Chapman, through his marriage to Francie Chapman. Authorities have described the shooting as accidental, and the case is being handled as a tragic, isolated incident. As of Monday, no arrests have been made, but the investigation remains open and ongoing.
A FAMILY GRIEVING THE UNTHINKABLE
In a statement issued through a family spokesperson, Duane and Francie Chapman expressed their sorrow and shock over the heartbreaking loss:
“We are grieving as a family over this incomprehensible, tragic accident and would ask for continued prayers as we mourn the loss of our beloved grandson, Anthony.”
Anthony was just 13 years old, with his entire future ahead of him. Known to those close to the family as a bright and good-hearted young boy, his sudden and tragic passing has left loved ones shattered and the wider community in mourning.
The Chapmans have requested privacy as they process their grief and navigate the painful days ahead.
INVESTIGATION CONTINUES
While police have labeled the shooting accidental, they are continuing their investigation to determine the full circumstances of what transpired inside the home that night. No further details have been released regarding how the firearm was discharged or whether additional charges could be filed at a later date.
The Collier County State Attorney’s Office is expected to review the findings of the police investigation to determine whether criminal charges will be pursued.
A COMPLEX FAMILY HISTORY
Gregory Zecca, Anthony’s father, is the biological son of Francie Frane Chapman from a previous marriage. Francie married Duane Chapman in 2021, following the 2019 death of Chapman’s fifth wife, Beth Chapman, who died after a long and public battle with throat cancer.
Duane “Dog” Chapman, now 72, rose to fame through the hit reality show “Dog the Bounty Hunter,” which aired for eight seasons and made him a household name known for his tough love approach to tracking fugitives, as well as his deep Christian faith.
He is the father of 13 children, including several from previous relationships:
- Christopher (with Debbie White)
- Duane Lee II and Leland (with Fonda Sue Darnell)
- Wesley, James Robert, and the late Zebadiah (with Anne Tegnell)
- Tucker, Lyssa, and the late Barbara Katy (with Lyssa Rae Brittain)
- Bonnie, Cecily, and Garry (with Beth Chapman)
- In 2023, Chapman also announced the discovery of a previously unknown adult son, Jon, bringing his known children to 13.
COMMUNITY RESPONSE
News of Anthony’s death has sent shockwaves throughout the Chapman family fanbase and the Naples community. Tributes have flooded social media, with fans, friends, and strangers alike offering condolences, prayers, and support.
A makeshift memorial has begun forming near the residence where the tragedy occurred, with candles, flowers, and handwritten messages honoring the memory of a young life lost too soon.