JUST IN: Tragic News For “Dog The Bounty Hunter” and His Family

Heartbreaking news has emerged from Florida involving the family of Duane “Dog the Bounty Hunter” Chapman. His 13-year-old step-grandson, Anthony Zecca, has tragically died in what authorities are describing as a “freak accident.”

The devastating incident occurred on the evening of July 19, 2025, in Naples, Florida, where Anthony was accidentally shot and killed by his father, Gregory Zecca, the stepson of Duane Chapman and son of Chapman’s wife, Francie Frane. Zecca, 34, is a known member of Chapman’s bounty-hunting team and a podcast host.

Deputies from the Collier County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene shortly after 8:08 p.m., confirming it was an isolated incident inside an apartment with no other individuals involved. While no arrests have been made, authorities have launched an active and ongoing investigation, which includes forensic analysis, interviews, subpoenas, and search warrants to understand exactly what went wrong.

Duane Chapman, 72, and Francie Frane married in 2021, both having endured personal losses that brought them together—Duane lost his beloved wife Beth Chapman to cancer in 2019, while Francie had also lost her husband around the same time.

Together, they have built a blended family and a shared life of purpose and healing. Now, they face yet another unimaginable sorrow as they mourn the death of their grandson.

In a statement released by the family, they wrote:
“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.”

Gregory Zecca had a known interest in firearms and had reportedly taken his son Anthony to a shooting range in 2021, according to resurfaced social media posts that have since been deleted. Photos showed the father-son duo at a gun store and participating in firearm-related activities — a detail now drawing scrutiny in light of the tragedy.

While many details remain under investigation, the Collier County Sheriff’s Office has reaffirmed its commitment to conducting a comprehensive review of the event. Meanwhile, fans and supporters of Chapman’s family have flooded social media with an outpouring of sympathy and prayer.

Chapman, known to millions as “Dog the Bounty Hunter,” rose to fame for his bold persona, strong family ties, and unwavering faith — qualities his loved ones will no doubt lean on in this time of unthinkable loss.

Please continue to keep Duane, Francie, Gregory, and the entire Chapman family in your thoughts and prayers.