Dog the Bounty Hunter's Stepson Charged in Accidental Shooting Death of Teen Son

Gregory Zecca faces aggravated manslaughter charge after allegedly shooting 13-year-old Anthony while under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 7:39am

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Duane "Dog the Bounty Hunter" Chapman's stepson, Gregory Zecca, has been charged with aggravated manslaughter of a child with a firearm after fatally shooting his 13-year-old son, Anthony, in an alcohol and drug-fueled incident in Naples, Florida. Authorities say Zecca had been drinking and using marijuana before the shooting, which occurred while the two were watching a UFC event at a friend's apartment. Zecca allegedly brandished his firearm and accidentally discharged it, striking and killing Anthony. If convicted, Zecca could face life in prison.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the dangers of mixing firearms, alcohol, and drugs, and the devastating consequences that can occur. It also raises questions about gun safety and responsible ownership, especially when children are present. The case has drawn attention to the Chapman family's history of legal troubles, further complicating an already heartbreaking situation.

The details

According to the Collier County Sheriff's Office, Zecca had been drinking at a local establishment and using marijuana at a friend's residence before the shooting. He allegedly brandished his firearm multiple times, including "practicing drawing it from his waistband and dry-firing" it, before the fatal discharge. A toxicology report estimated Zecca's blood-alcohol concentration to be 0.116, above Florida's legal limit of 0.08.

  • On February 3, 2026, Gregory Zecca was arrested and charged with aggravated manslaughter of a child with a firearm and using a firearm while under the influence.
  • The incident occurred on August 15, 2025, when Zecca fatally shot his 13-year-old son, Anthony, at a friend's apartment in Naples, Florida.

The players

Gregory Zecca

Duane "Dog the Bounty Hunter" Chapman's stepson, who has been charged with aggravated manslaughter of a child with a firearm after fatally shooting his 13-year-old son, Anthony, while under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

Anthony Zecca

The 13-year-old son of Gregory Zecca, who was fatally shot by his father in an alcohol and drug-fueled incident.

Duane "Dog the Bounty Hunter" Chapman

The reality TV star and bounty hunter, who is the stepfather of Gregory Zecca and grandfather of the victim, Anthony Zecca.

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What they’re saying

“This was a heartbreaking and preventable tragedy. Our detectives conducted an exhaustive and thorough investigation, examining every element of what happened through witness statements, forensic testing, subpoenas, search warrants, and more. I commend their hard work and professionalism in uncovering the facts in an incredibly difficult case.”

— Sheriff Kevin Rambosk

“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.”

— Duane "Dog the Bounty Hunter" Chapman

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Gregory Zecca out on bail.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the importance of responsible gun ownership, especially when children are present, and the devastating consequences that can occur when firearms are mishandled while under the influence of alcohol and drugs. It also highlights the ongoing challenges facing the Chapman family, who have faced a series of legal troubles in recent years.