BREAKING: Garry Chapman, the police officer son of “Dog the Bounty Hunter” Duane Chapman, has been fired from the Princeville Police Department following a high-speed chase that tragically resulted in the death of a teenager. The incident occurred on September 6, 2023, when Chapman pursued a suspected drunk driver, leading to a violent crash.
Authorities report that the chase began in Princeville and ended in Hartselle, Alabama, where the suspect, Archie Hale, collided with a minivan containing several teenagers. The crash unfolded shortly before 8:30 PM on Interstate 65, after Chapman attempted to stop Hale for moving violations and suspected DUI.
In a shocking turn of events, 17-year-old Tristian Hollis succumbed to his injuries at the hospital after the crash. His obituary described him as a polite young man who recently celebrated his 17th birthday and had just acquired his first car. The other teens in the minivan were also injured and taken to the hospital, including brothers Gavin Prater, 14, and Noah Prater, 16, who were also hospitalized alongside another teen, Braxton Wales.
Mayor Sam Heflin confirmed that Chapman was terminated after an internal investigation upheld the police chief’s decision, stating that Chapman should have ceased the chase. Until his termination, Chapman had been on administrative leave with pay. His attorney, Scott Morro, asserted that Chapman is an excellent officer, claiming that the facts and law are on his side as they prepare for an appeal hearing on October 13.
Hale, the accused driver, is facing multiple serious charges, including murder and DUI, and is currently held without bond. Details about the speeds involved in the chase and the specific vehicle Hale was driving have not been disclosed by authorities.
This tragic event comes as the Chapman family grapples with grief from a recent family tragedy, where Duane Chapman’s step-grandson was fatally shot in a freak accident. Family representatives earlier expressed their sorrow, asking for prayers during this difficult time.
As this story develops, the community is left mourning the loss of a young life and grappling with the consequences of reckless driving. Stay tuned for updates on the upcoming hearing and further legal actions related to this devastating incident.
