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Florida Father Charged in Shooting Death of 13-Year-Old Son
Authorities say the father was intoxicated and mishandling a firearm when the fatal incident occurred.
Published on Feb. 4, 2026
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A 39-year-old Florida man has been arrested and charged with aggravated manslaughter of a child with a firearm and using a firearm while under the influence after allegedly fatally shooting his 13-year-old son while drunkenly playing with a gun. The Collier County Sheriff's Office says the father, Gregory Anthony Zecca, spent hours drinking at a local establishment before purchasing more alcohol and going to a friend's residence, where the shooting took place.
Why it matters
This tragic incident highlights the dangers of mixing firearms, alcohol, and drugs, and the devastating consequences that can result. It also raises questions about gun safety, responsible firearm ownership, and the need for better education and policies to prevent such senseless deaths.
The details
According to investigators, Zecca consumed alcohol and marijuana while repeatedly handling a firearm in the presence of his 13-year-old son. The gun was initially rendered safe, but at some point, the magazine was reinserted and a round was chambered. Zecca then discharged the weapon, fatally striking his son. Deputies responding to the scene observed marijuana in plain view and detected the smell of alcohol on Zecca. A toxicology expert estimated Zecca's blood-alcohol concentration to be approximately 0.116 at the time of the shooting, well above the legal limit.
- The incident occurred on July 19, 2025.
- Zecca was arrested and charged in February 2026, following a monthslong investigation.
The players
Gregory Anthony Zecca
A 39-year-old Florida man who has been charged with aggravated manslaughter of a child with a firearm and using a firearm while under the influence in connection with the shooting death of his 13-year-old son.
Collier County Sheriff's Office
The law enforcement agency that conducted the investigation and made the arrest in this case.
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, Collier County Sheriff (eastidahonews.com)
“This case underscores that devastating tragedy that can result from mixing firearms, alcohol and drugs. Our hearts are with everyone affected by this loss.”
— Sheriff Kevin Rambosk, Collier County Sheriff (eastidahonews.com)
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Gregory Anthony Zecca to be released on bail.
The takeaway
This tragic incident highlights the urgent need for better education and policies around the safe and responsible use of firearms, as well as the dangers of combining firearms, alcohol, and drugs. It serves as a sobering reminder of the devastating consequences that can occur when these elements are mishandled, and the importance of prioritizing public safety and gun safety above all else.
