Gregory Zecca is the stepson of TV star Duane Dog the Bounty Hunter Chapman.
He is currently under psychiatric care following the accidental death of his 13-year-old son Anthony. The event took place on July 19th in Naples, Florida. As TMZ stated, Zecca fired an unintentional bullet at his son in their house.
Zecca was admitted on a 5150 psychiatric hold. That enables one to be detained without his or her consent up to 72 hours, presuming he or she has been found to have potential to harm self and others or is unable to take care of self due to a mental illness. A representative of the family told TMZ that Zecca's feelings of intense grief were too overwhelming for him.
The Collier County Sheriff’s Office is now investigating the shooting. In a statement on July 21, the office described the case as an “isolated incident” and stated that they are investigating all details. That includes collecting witness statements, running forensic tests, and issuing search warrants.
Details of the shooting and Gregory Zecca's police investigation
On July 19, 13-year-old Anthony was shot inside the apartment he shared with his father, Gregory Zecca. Reports say the incident was unintentional. Police have not charged Zecca with any crime so far.
The Collier County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that they are doing a full “death investigation.” They said in a statement to E! News,
“Our detectives are conducting a thorough investigation looking into all the elements of this tragic incident.”
Officials are speaking with witnesses and reviewing evidence. They are also using search warrants and subpoenas to collect more information. No other details about the shooting have been shared with the public.
Family’s response and mental health support
Following the accident, Gregory Zecca’s mother Francie Frane and her husband Duane Chapman made a public statement. On July 19, their rep told 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.”
Zecca has not spoken to the media. His rep confirmed that he was deeply affected by the loss and that the 5150 psychiatric hold is for his safety. The hold, which is recognized under California law, is used when a person is considered to be in a mental health crisis.
The family rep told TMZ the hold “is a result of his grief over the tragedy and not because he feels guilty of a crime in relation to the shooting.”
Gregory Zecca is now receiving care while dealing with the shock and pain of losing his son. The police are still investigating the event. No criminal charges have been filed at this time.
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