Dog the Bounty Hunter's Stepson Charged in Accidental Shooting Death of 13-Year-Old Son

Gregory Zecca faces manslaughter charges after allegedly shooting his son while under the influence of alcohol and drugs

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Duane "Dog the Bounty Hunter" Chapman was seen crying in court as his 39-year-old stepson, Gregory Zecca, appeared for a pretrial detention hearing on charges of aggravated manslaughter of a child with a firearm and using a firearm while under the influence. Zecca is accused of accidentally shooting and killing his 13-year-old son Anthony in July 2025 while allegedly intoxicated at their home in Naples, Florida.

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 resources to prevent such accidental shootings, especially involving minors.

The details

According to police, Zecca allegedly consumed alcohol over several hours at a local establishment, purchased more alcohol, and later used both alcohol and marijuana at a friend's residence. While watching a UFC fight with his son, Zecca allegedly repeatedly handled a firearm and practiced drawing it from his waistband. Though the firearm was initially made safe, the magazine was put back into the chamber before Zecca fired a shot that fatally struck Anthony. Police detected the odor of alcohol on Zecca and observed marijuana in plain view, and a toxicology report estimated his blood-alcohol concentration to be above the legal limit.

  • In July 2025, the incident occurred in the family's Naples, Florida, apartment.
  • On February 10, 2026, Zecca appeared in a Collier County, Florida, courtroom for a pretrial detention hearing.

The players

Duane "Dog the Bounty Hunter" Chapman

Zecca's stepfather and the star of the reality TV show "Dog the Bounty Hunter".

Gregory Zecca

Duane Chapman's 39-year-old stepson, who is charged with aggravated manslaughter of a child with a firearm and using a firearm while under the influence in the shooting death of his 13-year-old son Anthony.

Francie Chapman

Zecca's mother and Duane Chapman's wife.

Anthony

Zecca's 13-year-old son who was fatally shot.

Sheriff Kevin Rambosk

The Collier County Sheriff who stated that the incident "was a heartbreaking and preventable tragedy".

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What they’re saying

“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 (usmagazine.com)

“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 (usmagazine.com)

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 critical importance of responsible gun ownership, safe firearm storage, and the dangers of mixing firearms with alcohol and drugs. It serves as a sobering reminder of the devastating consequences that can occur when these safety precautions are not taken seriously, and the need for greater education and resources to prevent such accidental shootings, especially involving minors.