The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed that a prop firearm discharged on the New Mexico set of Rust has resulted in the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. Director Joel Souza, meanwhile, is said to be in critical condition. Producer and star Alec Baldwin fired the gun, and while an active investigation is underway, no charges have been filed by authorities.
There's every likelihood this was a tragic accident, but something clearly went badly wrong here. Apparently, there was a misfire with blanks, and it's possible the gun wasn't modified properly.
"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," a spokesperson for the movie says. "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."
Accidents like this one are rare, though we're sure you'll remember Brandon Lee's death on the set of The Crow in 1993. He was shot and killed by a co-star due to the revolver not being prepared properly. There's already a lot of discussion on social media that the use of guns on movie sets needs to be changed somehow, especially after an accident as tragic as this one.
Rust tells the story of infamous Western outlaw Harland Rust, and as well as Baldwin, the movie stars Frances Fisher, Jensen Ackles, and Travis Fimmel.
Our thoughts go out to Halyna's family, while we wish Joel a speedy recovery.