Tragic Incident: Dog the Bounty Hunter's Step-Grandson Shot Dead

Reality television star Duane 'Dog the Bounty Hunter' Chapman is mourning the loss of his teenage step-grandson, Anthony, who was fatally shot in what authorities describe as a tragic accident. The incident occurred on the evening of July 20, 2025, at an apartment in Naples, Florida, where Anthony, aged 13, was allegedly shot by his father, Gregory Zecca, in a mishap that has left the family and community in shock.

According to a spokesperson from the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, officers responded to a call reporting a shooting at approximately 8:08 PM. Upon arrival, they discovered the young victim, who was pronounced dead shortly after 8:30 PM. The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation, with no arrests made as of yet, highlighting the complexity of gun-related accidents within families.

In a statement to the media, Chapman and his wife, Francie, expressed their profound grief. 'We are grieving as a family over this incomprehensible tragic accident and we grieve the loss of our beloved grandson, Anthony,' the couple stated. They urged for privacy during this painful time.

Historical context regarding accidental shootings in the United States reveals a troubling trend. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), unintentional firearm injuries accounted for over 500 deaths in 2020 alone. These incidents often involve minors and underscore the importance of firearm safety education in homes where guns are present. Dr. Emily Carter, a public health expert at the University of Southern California, emphasizes the need for stringent safety measures: 'In households with firearms, it's vital to ensure guns are stored securely to prevent such tragedies. Education on firearm safety should begin at a young age to instill responsible attitudes towards guns.'

The emotional toll of such accidents extends beyond the immediate family. Community members in Naples have expressed their condolences and support for the Chapman family, while also calling for discussions surrounding gun safety. Local activist and gun control advocate, Michael Thompson, stated, 'This heartbreaking incident serves as a reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive gun control measures to prevent further tragedies.'

As the investigation continues, the Chapman family’s loss serves as a critical moment for reflection on the broader implications of firearm safety in the United States. With public discourse increasingly focusing on gun regulation, this incident may reignite debates surrounding responsible gun ownership and the protection of children.

In conclusion, the accidental shooting of Anthony Zecca not only devastates his family but also highlights a critical societal issue that calls for immediate action. As advocates push for change, the hope is that lessons learned from this tragedy will lead to improved safety measures that can prevent future incidents.

Further developments in the investigation may provide additional insights into the circumstances of this tragic event. The Chapman family has requested privacy while they navigate their grief, signaling the deep personal impact that such public tragedies can have on individual lives.