In a tragic development on Thursday evening (October 21), Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office confirmed cinematographer Halyna Hutchins has died after Alec Baldwin “discharged” a prop gun on the New Mexico set of western Rust.
Hutchins was 42 and according to authorities and union representatives passed away after she was flown to hospital. At time of writing, director Joel Souza was understood to be in hospital after sustaining an injury in the early afternoon incident at Bonanza Creek Ranch.
It is understood Baldwin spoke with authorities and was subsequently released.
The authorities issued the following statement: ”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.”
The production issued the following statement: “The entire cast and crew has been absolutely devastated by today’s tragedy, and we send our deepest condolences to Halyna’s family and loved ones. We have halted production on the film for an undetermined period of time and are fully cooperating with the Santa Fe Police Department’s investigation. We will be providing counseling services to everyone connected to the film as we work to process this awful event.”
Travis Fimmel and Jensen Ackles also star in the story of Harland Rust (Baldwin) who breaks his grandson out of prison after the youngster is convicted of accidental murder. The pair go on the run and are chased by legendary US Marshal Wood Helm and bounty hunter Fenton “Preacher” Lang. Souza and Baldwin created the story.
Highland Film Group handles international sales on the feature and CAA Media Finance represents US rights.
Baldwin is a producer via his El Dorado Pictures with Matt DelPiano of Cavalry Media, Ryan Donnell Smith of Thomasville Pictures, Anjul Nigam of Brittany House Pictures and Ryan Winterstern and Nathan Klingher of Short Porch Pictures.
Allen Cheney, Emily Hunter Salveson and Christopher M.B. Sharp and Jennifer E. Lamb serve as executive producers. Hunter Salveson and Donnell Smith’s Streamline Global are co-financing Rust.
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