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Gregory Zecca, the stepson of the well-known television personality Duane Chapman, also known as Dog the Bounty Hunter, has been taken into custody following the tragic shooting of his 13-year-old son, Anthony.
According to a report by the Daily Mail, the 39-year-old Zecca is charged with aggravated manslaughter of a child with a firearm and handling a firearm while under the influence. If convicted, he could face a life sentence.
The incident occurred on July 19 at a residence in Naples, Florida. On that day, Zecca allegedly consumed alcohol and marijuana for several hours before he began watching a UFC fight and was reportedly handling a gun in the presence of his son. This information was shared in a post by the Collier County Sheriff’s Office on their Facebook page.
Authorities explain that although the firearm was initially unloaded, a magazine was eventually inserted, a bullet chambered, and the gun discharged.
Collier County Sheriff Kevin Rambosk described the incident as a “heartbreaking and preventable tragedy.” He commended his detectives for their comprehensive investigation into the matter.
“I commend their hard work and professionalism in uncovering the facts in an incredibly difficult case,” he added.
Zecca is the son of the reality star’s wife, Francie Frane. The two married in 2021, less than two years after Dog’s late wife Beth Chapman passed away at age 51.
According to a warrant obtained by TMZ, prior to the tragedy Zecca ‘repeatedly handled a firearm in the child’s presence, practicing drawing it from his waistband and dry-firing.”
Following Anthony’s death, a family representative claimed Zecca was so grief-stricken by Anthony’s death that there were concerns he would decide to take his own life, according to TMZ.
“We are grieving as a family over this incomprehensible tragic accident,” the family said in a statement at the time, “and would ask for continued prayers as we grieve the loss of our beloved grandson, Anthony.”