A heartbreaking tragedy has struck in Florida, leaving Dog the Bounty Hunter’s family in deep mourning. Duane “Dog” Chapman and his wife, Francie, are reeling after Dog’s 13-year-old step-grandson, Anthony, was accidentally shot and killed by his own father, Gregory Zecca, in what’s being described as a freak incident.
The fatal shooting took place on Saturday, July 19, at a Naples, Florida, apartment. Authorities responded to the scene around 8 p.m. ET after receiving an emergency call. Although the investigation remains active, police have confirmed the event appears to be isolated, and no arrests have been made at this time, according to Radar Online.
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According to those close to the situation, the shooting wasn’t a deliberate act of violence but an unimaginable accident that tore a family apart. A representative for the Chapmans confirmed that Dog and Francie are devastated and grieving the loss of young Anthony, asking for privacy and prayers as they try to process the unimaginable.
“Dog the Bounty Hunter and Francie 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.” They emphasized the family’s need for privacy during this harrowing time, stated the family rep.
The tight-knit family is no stranger to tragedy, but this latest heartbreak cuts especially deep. Losing a child under any circumstances is soul-crushing. But when it’s at the hands of a parent, even accidentally, the grief becomes all the more complex.
Florida Family Faces Worst Nightmare
Dog, 72, has long been a larger-than-life figure known for chasing down criminals on reality TV. But behind the tough exterior is a man who’s experienced his fair share of personal loss. In 2019, Dog lost his wife, Beth, to cancer, a grief that played out publicly and left fans heartbroken for him.
It was through that pain that he met Francie, a woman who had also endured loss. Their shared experiences bonded them quickly, eventually leading to love, an engagement in 2020, and marriage in 2021. Together, they found healing in one another until now, as tragedy once again darkens their path.
Now, instead of enjoying the quiet strength of their rebuilt life together, Dog and Francie are plunged back into grief. The loss of Anthony has rocked their entire family. Leaving one Florida father facing the lifelong torment of a devastating mistake.
There are no words for the pain of losing a child, especially in a tragic, preventable accident. Dog the Bounty Hunter’s Florida family is now facing another unthinkable chapter. One filled with sorrow, unanswered questions, and the kind of heartbreak no one should ever have to endure.
Sabrina Russell 
Sofia Bassett 
