Dog the Bounty Hunter's Stepson Gregory Zecca Accidentally Kills 13-Year-Old Son — A Shocking Family Tragedy

A Family Reeling from Tragedy

In a heartbreaking and deeply disturbing incident, Gregory Zecca — the stepson of famed television personality Duane “Dog” Chapman, better known as Dog the Bounty Hunter — accidentally shot and killed his own 13-year-old son, Anthony Zecca, earlier this week. The shocking event has sent waves of grief and disbelief across the internet and devastated a family already marked by tragedy.

Details are still emerging, but initial reports confirm that the incident occurred in Florida, where Gregory had been residing with his family. Sources close to the investigation report that the shooting appears to be entirely accidental, with no signs of foul play. Nevertheless, the emotional toll is immeasurable.

Who Is Gregory Zecca? A Son, Stepson, and Father

Gregory Zecca is the biological son of Beth Chapman, the late wife of Dog the Bounty Hunter. Though not as publicly known as other members of the Chapman family, Gregory has long lived in the shadow of the iconic bounty-hunting dynasty.

Beth, who passed away in 2019 after a battle with cancer, often referred to her children as her world — and Dog took many of them under his wing, treating them as his own. Gregory maintained a relatively private life, avoiding the spotlight that surrounded the Chapman name.

Friends describe him as “quiet, hard-working, and devoted to his children.” That makes this tragedy all the more difficult to comprehend.

What Happened: The Shooting that Changed Everything

According to official statements from local law enforcement, the shooting occurred in the early hours of the morning on July 18, 2025. Zecca had reportedly been handling a firearm in the family home when it accidentally discharged, fatally striking his son, Anthony.

Paramedics arrived swiftly, but despite their efforts, Anthony was pronounced dead at the scene. The emotional scene reportedly left Gregory inconsolable. He has been fully cooperative with authorities and is not currently facing criminal charges as the investigation continues.

The firearm involved is believed to have been legally owned.

Dog the Bounty Hunter’s Response: A Grandfather’s Grief

Dog the Bounty Hunter has not yet issued an official public statement, but those close to the family say he is “devastated beyond words.” This isn’t the first time the Chapman family has faced deep sorrow. Dog lost his wife Beth to cancer, and his daughter Barbara Katy Chapman tragically died in a car accident in 2006 — on the eve of his wedding to Beth.

Now, the family is once again in mourning. Fans of the long-running Dog the Bounty Hunter series have flooded social media with messages of love, support, and shock. Hashtags like #PrayersForDog and #AnthonyZecca have trended across Twitter and Instagram.

Gun Safety and the Ongoing Conversation

While the Zecca family is left shattered, the tragedy has reignited discussions about firearm safety and responsible gun ownership in American homes. Advocates are calling for increased awareness, especially in households with children.

Firearm-related accidents remain one of the leading causes of unintentional deaths among minors in the United States. This tragic case — involving a well-known family — brings a painful spotlight to the issue once again.

Who Was Anthony Zecca?

Anthony Zecca was described by neighbours and teachers as “bright, respectful, and always smiling.” A lover of video games and skateboarding, he had recently started showing interest in music — a passion that runs deep in the Chapman family.

He was set to start 8th grade next month.

A small memorial of candles, flowers, and handwritten notes has begun to grow outside the Zecca residence. One message reads simply:

“Gone too soon. Heaven gained an angel.”

The Internet Reacts: Grief, Outrage, and Support

As news of the incident broke, fans of Dog the Bounty Hunter took to social media to express their sorrow and disbelief. Some users questioned how a gun could be accessible around a child, while others chose to focus on compassion and healing.

One tweet reads:

“This is absolutely tragic. Gregory will live with this forever. No judgment — just prayers.”

Another writes:

“Dog has been through so much. This family can’t catch a break. Praying hard.”

What Comes Next for the Zecca and Chapman Families

While the investigation continues, the Chapman family is expected to hold a private memorial for Anthony in the coming days. Legal experts suggest that while Gregory may not face criminal charges, the emotional repercussions will be lifelong.

Dog the Bounty Hunter, who has long been a figure of resilience and strength, is now facing perhaps the deepest personal blow since losing Beth. Close sources say he is surrounded by family and asking for privacy and prayers.

A Final Word: Tragedy with No Villains

There are no villains in this story — only heartbreak. A child is gone, a father’s life is forever changed, and a family is once again navigating unspeakable grief under the public eye.

Sometimes, tragedy doesn’t come from evil — but from a single, irreversible mistake.

Let this be a reminder: Cherish your loved ones. Practice safety. Lead with compassion.

Conclusion

The death of Anthony Zecca is not just a family tragedy — it's a national reminder of the fragility of life, especially when firearms are involved. While the Chapman family grieves in private, the public outpouring of support has shown that even in moments of heartbreak, humanity prevails. Gregory Zecca now carries an unimaginable burden, one that will echo through every day of his life. Let us hope his path forward is met with understanding, healing, and support.

As for Dog the Bounty Hunter, the man known for tracking fugitives now finds himself chasing peace in the aftermath of yet another personal loss.

May Anthony’s memory be a blessing — and may his story serve as a lesson we never forget.