Alec Baldwin accidentally kills crew member with prop gun on set of new film

By Neil Wilkes, Editor-in-chief | 2h

Alec Baldwin accidentally kills the cinematographer on the set of his new movie after a prop gun allegedly misfires.

Alec Baldwin has accidentally killed the cinematographer and hospitalised the director of his new movie Rust.

The 63-year-old was allegedly filming a scene for the new Western which required him to fire a gun that should have been loaded with blanks - although either a bullet or shrapnel fired from the gun instead.

Cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, 43, died in hospital from her injuries, while director Joel Souza suffered injuries which required hospitalisation.

In a statement, the Santa Fe sheriff's department in New Mexico said: "The sheriff's office confirms that two individuals were shot on the set of Rust. Halyna Hutchins, 42, director of photography and Joel Souza, 48, director, were shot when a prop firearm was discharged by Alec Baldwin, 68, producer and actor.

"Ms. Hutchins was transported, via helicopter, to University of New Mexico Hospital where she was pronounced dead by medical personnel. Mr. Souza was transported by ambulance to Christus St. Vincent Regional Medical center where he is undergoing treatment for his injuries.

"This investigation remains open and active. No charges have been filed in regard to this incident. Witnesses continue to be interviewed by detectives."

Production on the movie has been paused indefinitely following the incident.