The stepson of Duane Chapman, known as Dog the Bounty Hunter, faced a devastating family tragedy. Over the weekend, Gregory Zecca accidentally shot and killed his 13-year-old son, Anthony, in their Naples, Florida apartment.
Police responded to the scene Saturday evening, calling it an “isolated incident.” No arrests have been made, and an investigation is ongoing.
The family shared their grief: “We are mourning this incomprehensible loss and ask for prayers,” stated Duane and his wife, Francie. They also requested privacy during this difficult time.
Duane Chapman became a household name through the reality show Dog the Bounty Hunter, which aired from 2004 to 2012. He later starred in other programs like Dog and Beth: On the Hunt and Dog’s Most Wanted.
At 72, Chapman has 13 children from six different relationships. He married Francie in 2021, finding comfort in shared experiences after both had lost their previous spouses.
This tragic incident highlights the need for conversations around gun safety, especially in homes with children. According to a 2022 report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 4,000 children aged 0 to 17 were killed by gunfire in 2020 alone, with many incidents being accidental.
Community reactions have flooded social media, emphasizing the importance of responsible gun ownership. A trending hashtag is urging users to share stories of accidental shootings to raise awareness.
As the investigation continues, this tragedy serves as a painful reminder of the responsibilities that come with gun ownership and the need for stronger safeguards in safeguarding our youth.
For more on gun safety measures, you can read a report from the Brady Campaign on preventing gun violence.
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