SANTA FE, NM – An investigation is underway after authorities say actor Alec Baldwin discharged a prop firearm on a New Mexico movie set Thursday afternoon, killing one person and injuring another.
According to KRQE, the incident occurred at Bonanza Creek Ranch south of Santa Fe, where Baldwin was filming the movie “Rust”. The Santa Fe Sheriff’s Office said the film’s 42-year-old photography director, Halyna Hutchins, was pronounced dead after being to the University of New Mexico hospital. The director, 48-year-old Joel Souza, was transported to Christus St. Vincent for emergency treatment.
The sheriff’s office said deputies are now investigating how the shooting happened and what type of projectile was discharged. A spokesperson for the movie production company was quoted as saying the incident was an accident involving the misfire of a prop gun.
No charges have been filed so far as authorities continue their investigation. A spokesman for the sheriff’s office said the 63-year-old Baldwin willingly provided a statement to investigators.
Production has been halted on Rust, which had been scheduled to continue filming into next month.
“There are no words to convey my shock and sadness regarding the tragic accident that took the life of Halyna Hutchins, a wife, mother and deeply admired colleague of ours,” said Baldwin in one of several tweets he posted reacting to the incident.
1- There are no words to convey my shock and sadness regarding the tragic accident that took the life of Halyna Hutchins, a wife, mother and deeply admired colleague of ours. I’m fully cooperating with the police investigation to address how this tragedy occurred and
— AlecBaldwin(HABF) (@AlecBaldwin) October 22, 2021
2- 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.
— AlecBaldwin(HABF) (@AlecBaldwin) October 22, 2021
Have you been hurt? Then call Bert! If you have lost a loved one due to the wrongful or negligent actions of another person, your family may be able to file a wrongful death claim. The New Mexico wrongful death lawyers at Parnall Law can help you navigate the legal system and will fight to bring your family the justice and compensation you are due. You can schedule a free consultation to discuss your case by calling (505) 268-6500 or contacting us online.
