ALEC Baldwin accidentally shot and killed a cinematographer while leaving its director in critical condition on set of his new movie, Rust, law enforcement exclusively revealed to The Sun.
The tragic death was caused by a prop gun firing while filming the actor’s latest movie – which resulted in both the cinematographer and the director getting shot.
In a statement first given to The Sun, Santa Fe County Sheriff Juan Rios revealed: “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, 63, producer and actor.”
The officer also confirmed that no charges have been filed yet relating to the incident however, the investigation remains ongoing as witness’ are being interviewed.
Alec was filming a scene on the set of his new Western movie, Rust, that required him to fire a gun that was supposed to be loaded with blanks.
However, tragedy struck when the gun discharged either shrapnel or a bullet, which hit two people on set including director of photography, Halyna Hutchins.
Shortly after the incident took place, Halyna was airlifted to a hospital where she died from her injuries.
The other person to be shot was film director and writer Joel Souza – who was transported by an ambulance to Christus St. Vincent’s hospital.
He continues to receive emergency treatment as he remains in critical condition, The Hollywood Reporter reported.
The shooting at Bonanza Creek Ranch just outside of Santa Fe, New Mexico happened in the middle of a scene that was either being rehearsed or filmed – with the incident potentially being caught on camera, officials confirmed.
The TV and film star was “unaware” about the type of ammunition in the gun, according to Deadline.
It is standard protocol for the movie’s hired prop master or armorer to be responsible for how to conduct fire arms and ensuring gun safety on a set such as Rust.
Due to today’s events, filming has been paused, with a rep saying: “Production has been halted for the time being on Rust. The safety of our cast and crew remains our top priority.”
OFFICIALS CONFIRM FATAL ACCIDENT
Earlier today, Santa Fe County officials first confirmed the tragic fatality of Halyna – which occurred just before 2 p.m. PST – in a separate statement.
“The Santa Fe County sheriff’s office confirms that two individuals were shot during filming of a scene on the set of the movie western, Rust.
“According to investigators, it appears the scene being filmed involved the use of a prop firearm when it was discharged. Detectives are investigating how and what type of projectile was discharged,” the department stated.
The statement continued: “One shooting victim, a 42-year-old female, was transported via helicopter to University Of New Mexico Hospital. The Sheriff’s office confirms she has succumbed to her injuries.
“The incident remains an active investigation. As more information becomes available, updates will be provided.”
Reacting to today’s devastating news, the Cinematographers Guild said: “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.”
UNDER CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION
A spokesperson for the Rust movie previously said in a statement: “There was an accident today on the New Mexico set of Rust involving the misfire of a prop gun with blanks.
“Two crew members have been taken to the hospital and are receiving care. “
Just hours before the violent mishap, Alec posed in character on the set in an Instagram post.
Dressed in old Western gear, include dirty cowboy boots, a vest and bandana, he was seen holding a hat looking tired in front of his trailer.
“Back to in person at the office. Blimey…it’s exhausting,”
Rust will star Alec alongside actors Travis Fimmel, Brady Noon, Frances Fisher and Jensen Ackles.
Director Joel worked on the story and screenplay with Alec – who plays the titular character, Harland Rust.
