Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · July 22, 2025 · Entertainment

Heartbreak and Heroics: Dog the Bounty Hunter's Stepson in Grief-Induced Psychiatric Hold

Dog the Bounty Hunter star Duane Chapman's stepson, Gregory Zecca, 38, has been put on a psychiatric hold after accidentally fatally shooting his thirteen-year-old son Anthony

Bounty Hunter Star's Stepson Accidentally Kills 13-Year-Old Son: The Tragic Fall of Gregory Zecca

In a stunning turn of events, Gregory Zecca, stepson of Duane "Dog" Chapman, star of the hit TV show "Dog the Bounty Hunter," has been placed on a psychiatric hold after accidentally shooting and killing his own 13-year-old son, Anthony.

The devastating tragedy unfolded at the Zeccas' family apartment in Naples, Florida, where Gregory, 38, was visiting with his son. According to reports, Gregory had left his firearm unattended on the kitchen island when the unthinkable happened.

He was placed on a 5150 hold amid concerns he might try to take his own life, as per TMZ; Dog the Bounty Hunter star Duane Chapman seen with wife Francie, her son Gregory, and Anthony

Anthony's fatal gunshot wound was located on his neck, just above his sternum, with no exit wound. He lost a significant amount of blood before law enforcement arrived at the scene, where he was pronounced dead at 8:21 p.m.

The investigation into this senseless tragedy is ongoing, with authorities dispatching to the scene at 8:08 p.m. The Collier County Sheriff's Office has launched a thorough probe, including statements from witnesses, forensic testing, and search warrants.

A Gun Enthusiast's Worst Nightmare

The family's rep clarified that the psychiatric hold stems from grief of losing his son Anthony, and not him feeling guilty of a crime in regards to the shooting, which was a 'freak accident'

Gregory, who collaborates with his stepfather Duane on his bounty hunting team, is no stranger to firearms. In fact, he proudly shared photos of himself and Anthony "getting some range time in" with their rifles back in 2021. Little did they know that this passion would soon turn into a deadly nightmare.

A Family's Agony

As the news of Anthony's passing spread, Gregory was placed on a 5150 psychiatric hold due to concerns about his mental well-being. The family's representative revealed that Gregory is still heavily sedated and unable to speak with authorities or loved ones.

Anthony was accidentally shot and killed by Gregory - who is the son of Chapman's wife Francie - at their family apartment in Naples on Saturday evening; Anthony seen in 2021

Duane and Francie Chapman, Gregory's parents, issued a heartfelt statement expressing their grief and devastation. "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."

A Tragic Twist

This senseless tragedy has left many wondering how such a horrific event could have unfolded. However, it's worth noting that Gregory has disabled his social media accounts, suggesting he may be trying to process this unimaginable loss in private.

Zecca's fatal gunshot wound was on his neck, just above his sternum, with no exit wound, per a police report from the Collier County Sheriff's Office in Florida obtained by DailyMail.com

A Bonding Experience Gone Wrong

The Chapmans' bond over their shared grief was the foundation of their relationship. Duane had lost his fifth wife, Beth Smith, to stage II throat cancer in 2019, while Francie had suffered the loss of her husband Bob Frane in 2018. Their understanding and empathy for each other's pain brought them together.

As they prepare to celebrate their fourth wedding anniversary on September 2, the couple will undoubtedly be grappling with this unspeakable tragedy.

Notably, Chapman's son is a gun enthusiast. Back in 2021, he proudly shared photos of himself and his late son 'getting some range time in' with their rifles

The Scholarly Note Exclusive

In a shocking revelation, The Scholarly Note has learned that Anthony had previously experienced something extraordinary. While spending the summer with his grandparents in 2023, he told a story about feeling the wind of the Holy Spirit while visiting his "Meemaw" in the hospital ER after she injured her ankle.

Anthony and Duane sat on a bench in the waiting room when Anthony suddenly felt a gush of cold wind blowing in from outside, despite it being a warm and rainy day. This experience left him wondering what was happening, but he later asked his Meemaw, who confirmed that it was indeed the Holy Spirit.

Despite the horrific nature of Anthony's death, local law enforcement is calling the freak accident an 'isolated incident,' and no arrests have been made

A Life Cut Short

Anthony's tragic passing has sent shockwaves through the family and their community. As we mourn this senseless loss, we can't help but wonder how such a young life could be taken from us too soon.

The Scholarly Note will continue to monitor this developing story and provide updates as more information becomes available.

Zecca ¿ who is Francie's son from a prior marriage ¿ reportedly collaborates with his stepfather Duane on his bounty hunting team