[Archive 2021-10-23] Rust movie set accident leaves one person dead

Historical archive — originally published 2021-10-23. This report records what was known on that date. It is not current news; subsequent events may have changed the situation. Wikinews closed in May 2026.

Actor Alec Baldwin was involved in an accident on the film set of Rust Thursday that left the film's cinematographer, Halyna Hutchins, dead and the director, Joel Souza, injured.

The accident occurred that afternoon during the filming of a scene which involved Baldwin discharging a prop firearm. According to a report by Insider, an International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees message to members has claimed that the prop contained a live round.

Mr. Baldwin is cooperating with investigators and has issued his condolences to the family of Ms. Hutchins. The Santa Fe County, New Mexico's sheriff's office is investigating "what type of projectile was discharged" and how the event transpired. No charges have been filed. Mr. Souza was released from hospital Friday.

A sworn affidavit by investigators working the case stated that Baldwin was handed the prop and told by the assistant director that it was safe. Neither Baldwin nor the assistant director were aware that it was loaded.

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