Francie Chapman, the wife of reality television star Duane Chapman, known as Dog The Bounty Hunter, died in what seems to be an accidental shooting at their Florida home. The incident involved a firearm discharged by her son, Anthony, during what has been described as a “freak accident” in her apartment on Saturday, according to initial reports.
The Collier County Sheriff’s Office stated that no arrests have yet been made, but they are looking into the incident that occurred at about 8 PM on Saturday. A spokesperson for the sheriff’s department indicated that the investigation is ongoing, involving witness statements and forensic analysis.
“This was an isolated incident,” they noted, emphasizing the thorough nature of their inquiry. While the authorities have not revealed the victim’s identity, a former representative for Dog expressed deep sorrow over the situation, labeling it a tragedy.
The 911 call prompted deputies to arrive at the scene within four minutes. Unfortunately, efforts to provide first aid were not enough, as the child had suffered significant blood loss due to a gunshot wound located just above his sternum, with no evident exit wound.
Authorities retrieved a handgun and an empty holster from the premises, indicating the seriousness of the event. This tragic turn of events occurred just a few years after Francie and Dog tied the knot in 2021. Notably, Dog’s previous wife, Beth Chapman, passed away in June 2019 after a fight with throat cancer. Additionally, Francie’s husband, Bob Frene, died from cancer in December 2018.
As the investigation continues, there are many unanswered questions surrounding this incident, leaving the community and family in mourning.
