Cinematographer Halyna Hutchins Killed On Movie Set After Alec Baldwin Fires Prop Gun

A tragedy has unfolded on the set of a western film called Rust after actor Alec Baldwin fired a prop gun that killed cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. Director Joel Souza was injured in the accident as well, which took place on location in New Mexico.

Hutchins, 42, died at University of New Mexico Hospital in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Souza was receiving emergency care at Christus St. Vincent Regional Medical Center, according to the sheriff’s office, as reported by the Santa Fe New Mexican. He is now out of the hospital, actor Frances Fisher said on Twitter.

According to the actors’ union IATSE, the prop gun contained a “live single round,” Variety reported. The police have not returned a full report yet, however.

A news release from the sheriff’s office said no charges have been filed. Baldwin appeared at the sheriff’s office on his own volition to speak with investigators. He was photographed outside the office in tears. Sheriff’s office spokesperson Juan Ríos said at a briefing, “We’re treating this as we would any other investigation.”

The event unfolded at the Bonanza Creek Ranch, a popular filming location with multiple western-themed sets. Filming has been paused as the investigation takes place.

The sheriff’s office said it was trying to find out how the prop gun was fired and “what type of projectile was discharged.”

The Cinematographer’s Guild released a statement about the event. “The details are unclear at this moment, but we are working to learn more, and we support a full investigation into this tragic event,” guild president John Lindley and executive director Rebecca Rhine said (via Deadline). “This is a terrible loss, and we mourn the passing of a member of our Guild’s family.”

SAG-AFTRA president Fran Drescher and national executive director Duncan Crabtree-Ireland said in a statement: “We are devastated by this tragic news. Our hearts go out to the family of Director of Photography Halyna Hutchins who has passed away, and to Director Joel Souza who is injured and hospitalized. This is still an active investigation and we do not yet have all the facts. We will continue to work with production, the other unions, and the authorities to investigate this incident and to understand how to prevent such a thing from happening again.”

Rust was written by Baldwin and Souza, and Baldwin is also a producer. The story follows a man, Harland Rust (Baldwin), who travels to Kansas to help his estranged 13-year-old grandson escape prison and hanging for an accidental murder.

Baldwin shared an update on Twitter, saying, “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.” He added that he is “fully cooperating” with the investigation. Baldwin also shared that he has spoken to Halyna’s husband and is offering support.

Actor Joe Manganiello worked with Hutchins on the movie Archenemy. He said in statement that he is in shock. “An incredible talent and great person,” he said of Hutchins. “I can’t believe this could happen in this day and age…”

Hutchins was named one of the “Rising Stars of Cinematography” by American Cinematographer in 2019.