Jensen Ackles has paid an emotional tribute to Halyna Hutchins after the cinematographer's shock death on Thursday.
The 42-year-old was accidentally shot dead by actor Alec Baldwin on set of Western film Rust in New Mexico after a prop gun is said to have had live rounds included.
The incident also left the film's director with injuries to his shoulder.
Now, Jensen, 43, has posted a lengthy tribute to Instagram and told his 8.8 million followers that the incident was "a tragedy of epic proportions".
Speaking for the first time since the shocking incident, Jensen described Halyna as "an inspiration".
Alongside several images of Halyna, Jensen wrote: "I’m not even sure where to start.
"This has been a tragedy of epic proportions that we are all still processing.
"Earlier last week I felt compelled to tell Halyna just how awesome I thought she was. I told her how incredible I thought her camera shots were and just how exciting it was to watch her and her team work. Truly.
"She laughed and said thank you and gave me a hug. I’ll forever be thankful we had that moment. She had a spunk and passion that infected the entire crew from the top down. She was an inspiration."
He continued: "My heart and prayers go out to Halyna’s husband, son and the rest of her family. There just aren’t enough words to express what an immense loss this is.
"She will be incredibly missed by all of us who knew and admired her."
He also confirmed that alongside his wife Danneel, he had made a donation to the AFI scholarship fund in her name and also to the GoFundMe page set up in her honour.
Halyna died as she was on her way to hospital via helicopter, while director Joel Souza has since been discharged.
Police have confirmed that the investigation into the incident remains "open and active" and said that "no charges have been filed in regard to the incident" so far.
Director and actor Alec, 63, broke his silence shortly after the incident, saying there were "no words to convey my shock and sadness regarding the tragic accident".
He added: "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."
Halyna was married and had a nine-year-old son called Andros.
Her husband, Matthew, said in a statement: "Halyna inspired us all with her passion and vision, and her legacy is too meaningful to encapsulate in words.
"Our loss is enormous, and we ask that the media please respect my family’s privacy as we process our grief. We thank everyone for sharing images and stories of her life."
Do you have a story to sell? Get in touch with us at webcelebs@trinitymirror.com or call us direct 0207 29 33033.
