Tragedy Strikes Dog the Bounty Hunter’s Family: Grandson, 13, Fatally Shot by Father in Accidental Shooting
Anthony, Duane “Dog the Bounty Hunter” Chapman’s 13-year-old step-grandson, was cruelly and fatally shot in what is being characterized as a horrific accident, leaving his family devastated.
The incident took place in Naples, Florida, during the evening of Friday, July 19. Law enforcement officials have confirmed that the terrible incident occurred inside a neighborhood residence at approximately 8 p.m.
Anthony was accidentally shot by his own father, Gregory Zecca, the son of Duane’s wife, Francie Chapman, according to TMZ, which broke the story first. By virtue of his 2021 marriage to Francie, Gregory is Duane’s stepson.
No one has been taken into custody as of yet. Despite initial reports indicating that the shooting was accidental, authorities are currently looking into the circumstances surrounding the incident. Public disclosure of the accident’s circumstances and the weapon used has not yet occurred.
In a public statement released by TMZ and distributed via Chapman’s agent, the family conveyed their deep sorrow:
“Our family is in deep sorrow over this unfathomable tragic accident and would appreciate your continued prayers as we grieve the loss of our cherished grandson, Anthony.”
An already emotionally taxing past for both Duane and Francie Chapman is made worse by the catastrophe.
When Francie was married to her late husband, Bob, who died of cancer, their son, Gregory, was born. Unbelievably, Duane’s wife, Beth Chapman, passed away from cancer six months later in 2019.
In the years that followed, Francie and Duane were united by their mutual understanding of loss and their shared grief.
In a previous interview with Entertainment Tonight, Francie discussed their grief-based bond:
“We recognized the anguish the other person was experiencing. We stood by one another during those difficult times and days. We could discuss how we were feeling and cry together. It united us in such a wonderful manner.
She further underlined that they still hold their late spouses’ memories in high regard:
“We will never abandon Bob and Beth or lose sight of them. We will always have them in our lives.
Known to millions of people thanks to his popular reality TV program Dog the Bounty Hunter, Duane “Dog” Chapman has spent a large portion of his life in the spotlight.
He has had thirteen children and been married six times over the years. His total number of children now stands at 13, and he made headlines once more in 2023 when he disclosed the existence of a son named Jon who had not been previously known.
The family is still requesting privacy and ongoing prayers as they grieve the untimely death of young Anthony.
During this extremely trying time, friends, fans, and supporters from all around the world have started posting condolences on social media to show their support for the Chapmans.
The shooting inquiry is still ongoing. As authorities attempt to piece together the circumstances leading up to the tragedy, more information is anticipated to become available.
