Dog the Bounty Hunter's Stepson Charged in Fatal Shooting of Teenage Son

Gregory Zecca faces life in prison for aggravated manslaughter of a child with a firearm

Feb. 4, 2026 at 6:39pm

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Police in Naples, Florida have arrested and charged 39-year-old Gregory Zecca, the stepson of reality TV star Duane "Dog the Bounty Hunter" Chapman, with aggravated manslaughter of a child with a firearm and using a firearm while under the influence. The charges stem from a fatal shooting incident in July 2026 where Zecca allegedly shot and killed his teenage son after consuming alcohol and marijuana.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the dangers of mixing firearms, substance abuse, and negligence around children. It also raises questions about gun safety and responsibility, especially for public figures like Dog the Bounty Hunter who have built careers around the bail bonds and bounty hunting industries.

The details

Investigators say Zecca had been drinking alcohol over several hours and then used marijuana at a friend's residence where he and his son were watching TV. At some point, Zecca allegedly drew a weapon from his waistband and fired it multiple times near the child, without live ammunition. The magazine was later reinserted, chambering a live round, before Zecca fired again and fatally struck the teenager.

  • The incident occurred on July 19, 2026.
  • Zecca was arrested and charged on February 4, 2026.

The players

Gregory Zecca

The 39-year-old stepson of Duane "Dog the Bounty Hunter" Chapman who has been charged with aggravated manslaughter of a child with a firearm and using a firearm while under the influence.

Duane "Dog the Bounty Hunter" Chapman

A reality TV star known for his work as a bail bondsman and bounty hunter, and the stepfather of Gregory Zecca.

Francie Chapman

Duane "Dog the Bounty Hunter" Chapman's wife, who released a statement asking for privacy as the family grieves the tragic loss.

Sheriff Kevin Rambosk

The Collier County Sheriff who described the incident as a "heartbreaking and preventable tragedy" and praised the exhaustive investigation by his detectives.

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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.”

— 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 and Francie 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 case underscores the critical 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 drugs or alcohol. It serves as a somber reminder of the need for greater education and safety measures around firearms to prevent such heartbreaking incidents in the future.