Duane “Dog the Bounty Hunter” Chapman and Francie Frane grieve the tragic loss of grandson Anthony Zecca in a heartbreaking accident. Stay updated on this story.
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On July 19, 2025, a devastating tragedy struck the family of Duane “Dog the Bounty Hunter” Chapman, leaving fans and loved ones in shock.
The reality TV star and his wife, Francie Frane, are mourning the loss of their 13-year-old grandson, Anthony Zecca, who was accidentally shot and killed by his father, Gregory Zecca, in a heartbreaking incident at their family apartment in Naples, Florida.
This article delves into the details of this tragic event, explores the lives of those involved, and reflects on the Chapman family’s journey through grief, resilience, and their enduring legacy in the world of bounty hunting.
A Heartbreaking Loss For The Chapman Family
The incident occurred on Saturday night, around 8:00 p.m. ET, when the Collier County Sheriff’s Office responded to a 911 call reporting a shooting at the Zecca family’s apartment.
According to multiple sources, including TMZ and People magazine, Gregory Zecca, Francie Frane’s son from a previous marriage, accidentally shot his son, Anthony, in what authorities have described as an “isolated incident” and a “freak accident.”
Despite the efforts of first responders, Anthony was pronounced dead shortly after their arrival.
No arrests have been made, and the investigation remains ongoing, with law enforcement emphasizing that the shooting appears to be unintentional.
In a heartfelt statement to TMZ, Duane and Francie expressed their profound grief: “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 couple has requested privacy as they navigate this devastating loss, and fans have flooded social media platforms like Instagram and X with messages of condolence and support.
Who Was Anthony Zecca?
Anthony Zecca, only 13 years old, was not a public figure like his famous grandfather, Duane Chapman, but he was a cherished member of the Chapman family.
As the son of Gregory Zecca and step-grandson of Duane and Francie, Anthony brought joy to those around him.
In 2024, Francie featured Anthony in one of her “Fearless Friday” Instagram videos.
In it, he shared a touching story about feeling the “wind of the Holy Spirit” while visiting his grandmother in the hospital after she injured her ankle.
This glimpse into Anthony’s life highlighted his kind and reflective nature, endearing him to fans who followed the family’s journey.
The loss of Anthony is particularly poignant for the Chapman family, who have faced multiple tragedies over the years.
In 2006, Duane’s daughter, Barbara Katy Chapman, died at 23 in a car accident.
In 2019, Duane’s beloved wife, Beth Chapman, passed away at 51 after a battle with throat cancer.
Francie, too, has experienced profound loss, having lost her husband, Bob Frane, to cancer in 2018.
The shared experience of grief initially brought Duane and Francie together, and now they face yet another heartbreaking chapter.
The Chapman Family: A Legacy Of Resilience
Duane Chapman, known to millions as Dog the Bounty Hunter, rose to fame through his A&E reality series Dog the Bounty Hunter (2004–2012), which chronicled his high-stakes pursuits as a bounty hunter.
Alongside his late wife, Beth Chapman, Duane captured viewers’ hearts with his tough exterior, heartfelt compassion, and unwavering dedication to his family and profession.
The show, which aired for eight seasons, showcased the couple’s work at Da’Kine Bail Bonds in Honolulu, Hawaii, often featuring their children and extended family.
After Dog the Bounty Hunter ended, Duane and Beth starred in Dog and Beth: On the Hunt (2013–2015) on CMT, where they helped struggling bail bond agencies across the country while chasing fugitives.
Their final series, Dog’s Most Wanted (2019), aired on WGN America and continued their legacy of bringing justice to those who skipped bail.
Throughout their careers, Duane and Beth’s partnership was a cornerstone of their public persona, blending professional tenacity with personal devotion.
Beth Chapman, born Alice Elizabeth Smith, was a formidable presence on screen and in life.
Diagnosed with throat cancer in 2017, she fought bravely until her passing in June 2019 at The Queen’s Medical Center in Honolulu.
Beth and Duane had two children together, Bonnie Joanne Chapman and Garry Chapman, and Duane adopted Beth’s daughter, Cecily Barmore-Chapman, from a previous marriage.
Beth’s strength and charisma left an indelible mark on fans, and her loss deeply affected Duane and their family.
Francie Frane: A New Chapter For Dog
In 2020, Duane found love again with Francie Frane, a former rancher and hunter from Colorado.
The couple bonded over their shared experiences of losing their spouses to cancer. Francie’s husband, Bob Frane, died in December 2018, six months before Beth’s passing.
Their connection was immediate, and they began dating in early 2020, finding solace in their shared grief.
“We understood the pain that the other one was feeling, and in those tough days and moments, we helped each other stand up,” Francie told Entertainment Tonight in 2020.
Duane and Francie got engaged in May 2020 and married in September 2021 in Colorado Springs.
Francie, who owns Erosion Solutions Inc. in Colorado, seamlessly integrated into Duane’s life, joining him in bounty hunting ventures alongside her sons, including Gregory Zecca.
The couple recently relocated to Georgia, marking a new chapter in their lives.
In a June 2025 post on X, Duane shared, “Dog and Francie are proud to call Georgia home! We are planting roots, walking in faith, and excited for what is ahead.”
Francie has been open about honoring the memory of Beth and her late husband, Bob, while building a new life with Duane.
“We are never going to leave Bob and Beth behind or forget about them,” she said. “They will always be a part of us.”
This commitment to remembering their loved ones has resonated with fans, who admire the couple’s strength and authenticity.
Gregory Zecca: A Life In Bounty Hunting
Gregory Zecca, Francie’s son from her previous marriage, has been an active member of Duane’s bounty hunting team.
While not as prominent in the public eye as Duane or Beth, Gregory has contributed to the family’s professional endeavors.
His interest in firearms, evidenced by 2021 Instagram posts showing him and Anthony at a gun range, has drawn attention in light of the recent tragedy.
These posts, which highlighted a shared bonding experience, now serve as a painful reminder of the loss of his son.
The accidental shooting has raised questions about gun safety, particularly in households with children.
While authorities have not released specific details about the incident, the tragedy underscores the importance of responsible firearm handling.
The Chapman family has not commented on these specifics, focusing instead on their grief and request for privacy.
The Chapman Family’s History Of Tragedy
The loss of Anthony Zecca is the latest in a series of hardships for Duane Chapman and his family.
Below is a table summarizing some of the significant losses the family has endured:
endured:
| Family | Year | Cause | Relation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barbara Katy Chapman | 2006 | Car accident | Daughter |
| Beth Chapman | 2019 | Throat cancer | Wife |
| Anthony Zecca | 2025 | Accidental shooting | Step-grandson |
These tragedies have tested the resilience of Duane, Francie, and their blended family.
Despite their public personas, the Chapmans have faced deeply personal struggles, often in the spotlight.
Fans have praised Duane for his openness about his grief, particularly after Beth’s passing, and his ability to find hope and purpose through his relationship with Francie.
Duane Chapman’s Complex Family
Duane Chapman, now 72, is a father to 13 children from six different women, with six marriages over the years.
His large, blended family has been a central part of his life and television career.
Below is a breakdown of his children and their mothers:
- With La Fonda Sue Honeycutt (1972–1977): Duane Lee Chapman II and Leland Blane Chapman, both of whom worked with Duane at Da’Kine Bail Bonds and appeared on Dog the Bounty Hunter.
- With Debbie White: Christopher Michael Hecht, who was adopted after Debbie’s death.
- With Anne M. Tegnell (1979–1982): Zebadiah Chapman (died 1980), Wesley Chapman, and James Robert Chapman.
- With Lyssa Rae Brittain (1982–1991): Barbara Katie Chapman (died 2006), Tucker Dee Chapman, and Lyssa Rae Chapman.
- With Beth Chapman (2006–2019): Bonnie Joanne Chapman and Garry Chapman; Duane also adopted Beth’s daughter, Cecily Barmore-Chapman.
- With an unnamed partner: Jon, discovered in 2023.
Duane’s family dynamics are complex. His children are often involved in his bounty hunting business and television projects.
Despite challenges, including public disputes and personal losses, Duane has remained committed to his family, often sharing stories of reconciliation and growth.
The Public’s Response And Gun Safety Discussions
The news of Anthony’s death has sparked an outpouring of support from fans on social media.
Posts on X reflect the public’s sympathy, with users like @chucklechopsx and @usweekly sharing the family’s statement and offering condolences.
The tragedy has also prompted discussions about gun safety, particularly given Gregory Zecca’s documented interest in firearms.
While the incident has been deemed accidental, it serves as a somber reminder of the need for vigilance in households with guns.
Advocates for gun safety emphasize the importance of storing firearms securely and educating family members about their safe use.
The Chapman family’s high-profile status may amplify these conversations, encouraging others to prioritize safety to prevent similar tragedies.
Looking Forward: Healing And Advocacy
As Duane and Francie navigate this profound loss, they continue to lean on their faith and community.
The couple will host their 3rd Annual F.U.S.E. Restored Gala on November 15, 2025, in Cape Coral, Florida.
This human trafficking benefit event reflects their commitment to making a positive impact.
Their resilience in the face of adversity has inspired many, and their story of love and healing after loss remains a testament to their strength.
Duane’s journey from a convicted felon to a celebrated bounty hunter and television star is well-documented.
In his 2024 book, Nine Lives and Counting: A Bounty Hunter’s Journey to Faith, Hope, and Redemption, he reflects on how his time in prison led to his calling as a bounty hunter.
“While I was in prison, I became the warden’s barber… One day, an inmate tried to escape, and I apprehended him. The guard said, ‘Hook him up, bounty hunter.’ That is what started the career,” he told Fox News.
Conclusion
The tragic loss of Anthony Zecca has left an indelible mark on Duane “Dog the Bounty Hunter” Chapman, Francie Frane, and their family.
As they grieve, their story reminds us of the fragility of life and the strength found in love, faith, and community.
The Chapman family’s legacy, built on resilience, redemption, and a commitment to justice, continues to resonate with fans worldwide.
While they face this latest heartbreak, their request for prayers and privacy reflects their hope for healing in the days ahead.
For those wishing to support the family, respecting their privacy and offering messages of condolence can make a meaningful difference.
As the investigation into Anthony’s death continues, the Chapman family’s story serves as a poignant reminder to cherish loved ones and prioritize safety in all aspects of life.
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