The family of Duane “Dog the Bounty Hunter” Chapman is facing unimaginable heartbreak after the tragic loss of 13-year-old Anthony Zecca, Chapman’s stepgrandson, whose life was claimed in a tragic accident. The Collier County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that a fatal shooting took place earlier this week, describing the incident as “isolated.” While officials did not identify the victim, the Chapman family later confirmed the devastating news in a statement shared with TMZ.
“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,” the family expressed in their heartfelt message.
Anthony was the son of Gregory Zecca, stepson of Francie Frane—Dog’s wife, whom he married in 2021. The blending of the Chapman and Frane families was born out of shared loss and resilience: Dog’s beloved wife Beth Chapman passed away in 2019 after a courageous battle with throat cancer, while Francie had also recently lost her husband. Their shared experiences of grief and faith drew them together, helping them build a new life and family filled with hope and love.
In interviews, Francie reflected on the bond that formed between her and Dog during their darkest times: “We understood the pain that the other one was feeling. We could cry with each other and talk about what we were feeling… it brought us together in this amazing way.” Now, that bond is being tested yet again as the family endures another shattering loss.
Though still very young, Anthony was deeply loved and cherished. He was a bright spirit in his family’s life, and his presence brought joy to those around him. His father, Gregory, who has reportedly worked alongside Dog in bounty hunting operations, shared many moments of connection with Anthony, including a mutual interest in outdoor activities and firearms. In past social media posts, Gregory had proudly shared memories of time spent with his son, capturing the bond between them.
While the details of the accident remain limited, the family has emphasized that it was a tragic and unforeseen event—one that has left them heartbroken and seeking strength through prayer. For a family that has already endured so much, Anthony’s passing is a devastating reminder of how fragile and precious life is.
Duane Chapman, now 72, has weathered profound loss over the years, but the death of a child within the family has pierced in a way words cannot fully capture. The Chapmans and Franes are leaning heavily on their Christian faith, asking their community and supporters worldwide to join them in prayer as they navigate this grief.
As the investigation continues, the family has requested privacy and understanding from the public. What remains clear is that Anthony’s absence leaves behind a painful void in a family that has already carried immense burdens of loss.
Though his life ended far too soon, Anthony will be remembered with love—as a son, grandson, and young boy whose memory will forever be carried by those who knew him best.
May he rest in peace, and may his family find comfort in the embrace of faith, community, and the cherished memories they hold close to their hearts.
Leave a Reply