Actor Alec Baldwin fired a prop gun on the set of his new film, which has killed a cinematographer and injured a director.
A statement from the Santa Fe Sheriff’s office said the incident took place on Thursday on the set of Baldwin’s new film Rust, which he is acting in and producing.
Deputies were dispatched after receiving a 911 call from the set around 2pm from Bonanza Creek Ranch.
It read: “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 Guardian reports Baldwin spoke to investigators voluntarily.
The incident is believed to have involved the misfire of a prop gun with blanks. Production has now been stopped on the film.
Tributes to Halyna Hutchins, the cinematographer who was tragically killed in the incident, have poured in from other professionals in the business.
Taking to Twitter Director, Adam Egypt Mortimer said: "I'm so sad about losing Halyna. And so infuriated that this could happen on a set. She was a brilliant talent who was absolutely committed to art and film.”
Film director James Gunn wrote: "My greatest fear is that someone will be fatally hurt on one of my sets. I pray this will never happen. My heart goes out to all of those affected by the tragedy today on Rust, especially Halyna Hutchins & her family.”
Actor Joe Manganiello said: “I’m in shock. I was so lucky to have had Halyna Hutchins as my DP on Archenemy. An incredible talent & great person. I can’t believe this could happen in this day and age… gunfire from a prop gun could kill a crew member? What a horrible tragedy. My heart goes out to her family.”
