On October 21, 2021, a fatal shooting incident occurred on the set of the Western film 'Rust' at Bonanza Creek Ranch in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The day started behind schedule, but director Joel Souza noted that things seemed to be progressing smoothly during rehearsals.
During a scene rehearsal in a rustic church, assistant director Dave Halls handed actor Alec Baldwin a prop gun, declaring it as a 'cold gun' to indicate it was unloaded. Baldwin, demonstrating a 'cross draw' move, pointed the gun toward the camera when a loud pop was heard around 1:50 p.m.
Cinematographer Halyna Hutchins was struck by the discharged round, causing her to stumble and collapse, expressing an inability to feel her legs. Souza, who was nearby, also sustained a gunshot wound to his shoulder.
Following the chaos that ensued, crew members sought help as Hutchins was attended to by a medic while emergency services were contacted. Despite being airlifted to a hospital in Albuquerque, Hutchins, aged 42, tragically succumbed to her injuries. Souza, aged 48, received medical treatment for his shoulder wound.
The incident has sparked investigations into the circumstances surrounding the use of live ammunition on set, raising questions about safety protocols in the film industry. The tragic event has sent shockwaves through the entertainment community and prompted calls for increased vigilance to prevent such accidents in the future.
