Alec Baldwin “discharged” a prop gun on the set of the movie, Rust, that fatally injured cinematographer, Halyna Hutchins, and hospitalized director, Joel Souza.
The movie was being filmed on location in New Mexico.
Below is the full statement from the Santa Fe Sheriff’s department:
Santa Fe County Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to the Bonanza Creek Ranch movie set of the western “Rust”, October 21, 2021, when an 911 caller reported a shooting on the set.
The sheriff’s office confirms that two individuals were shot on the set of Rust. Halyna Hutchins, 42, director of photography and Joel Souza, 48, director, were shot when a prop firearm was discharged by Alec Baldwin, 68, producer and actor.
Ms. Hutchins was transported, via helicopter, to University of New Mexico Hospital where she was pronounced dead by medical personnel. Mr. Souza was transported by ambulance to Christus St. Vincent Regional Medical center where he is undergoing treatment for his injuries.
This investigation remains open and active. No charges have been filed in regard to this incident. Witnesses continue to be interviewed by detectives. “
Reportedly, Baldwin was unaware of the type of ammunition in the gun.
The prop master is typically responsible for fire arms and fire arms safety on set.
Hutchins had recently posted about the movie on her IG account.
The Cinematographers Guild released the following statements:
We received the devastating news this evening, that one of our members, Halyna Hutchins, the Director of Photography on a production called Rust in New Mexico died from injuries sustained on the set.
The details are unclear at this moment, but we are working to learn more, and we support a full investigation into this tragic event.
This is a terrible loss, and we mourn the passing of a member of our Guild’s family.
The DGA is incredibly saddened to hear of the tragic passing of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, and the serious injuries sustained by DGA director Joel Souza in an on-set incident in New Mexico today. We await further details and a full investigation. Our hearts go out to Halyna’s family, to Joel, and to everyone impacted.
Alec Baldwin stars in the film and he also co-wrote it with Souza.
A rep from production said, “Production has been halted for the time being” on Rust and that “the safety of our cast and crew remains our top priority.”
Watch the “CBS Mornings” coverage below.
**Update**
Alec Baldwin has taken to Twitter to speak out after the tragic incident, writing:
There are no words to convey my shock and sadness regarding the tragic accident that took the life of Halyna Hutchins, a wife, mother and deeply admired colleague of ours.
I’m fully cooperating with the police investigation to address how this tragedy occurred and I am in touch with her husband, offering my support to him and his family. My heart is broken for her husband, their son, and all who knew and loved Halyna.
See his original tweets below.
We send our condolences to the Hutchins family and friends, and we wish Souza a speedy recovery from his injuries.
Source: DEADLINE
