Gregory Zecca, the 39-year-old step-son of Duane ‘Dog’ Chapman and son of Francie Chapman, has been charged in connection with the shooting death of his 13-year-old son last summer. He faces charges including aggravated manslaughter of a child with a firearm and using a firearm while impaired.
The tragic incident occurred on July 19, 2025, in Naples, Florida, resulting in the death of Zecca’s son, Anthony, from a single gunshot wound. The Collier County Sheriff’s Office stated that Zecca could potentially face life imprisonment.
Kevin Rambosk, the County Sheriff, described the event as a “heartbreaking and preventable tragedy.” He remarked, “[Detectives] conducted an exhaustive and thorough investigation, examining every element of what happened through witness statements, forensic testing, subpoenas, search warrants and more.”
He continued, “I commend their hard work and professionalism in uncovering the facts in an incredibly difficult case. This case underscores that devastating tragedy that can result from mixing firearms, alcohol and drugs. Our hearts are with everyone affected by this loss.”
Investigations revealed that Zecca had been consuming alcohol at a local bar for several hours before the incident. He reportedly continued drinking and smoking marijuana at a friend’s house, where his son was also present.
According to a statement from the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, Zecca allegedly handled a firearm in the presence of his son, practicing drawing it from his waistband and dry firing. The statement noted, “The firearm had initially been rendered safe by removing the magazine and clearing a live round from the chamber.”
However, authorities stated that “the magazine was reinserted and a round chambered, and Gregory discharged a single shot, fatally striking the child.”
Upon arrival at the scene, officers detected the smell of alcohol and saw marijuana, prompting them to secure search warrants for Zecca’s medical records and a blood draw. Tests showed that Zecca’s blood alcohol level was approximately 0.116 at the time of the incident, nearly twice the legal limit for driving in Florida.
Sheriff officials concluded that Zecca was alcohol-impaired during the shooting. Joseph Lesniak, attorney for Dog the Bounty Hunter, commented on the case, stating that it “remains a devastating family tragedy.” He further expressed, “We believe Greg loved his son deeply and that this was a tragic accident – one that has left many lives permanently changed, especially Anthony’s and Greg’s.”