'Rust' Crew Walked Off Set Hours Before Prop Gun Killed Cinematographer

SANTA FE, NM — Hours before actor Alec Baldwin fired a prop gun that accidentally killed a cinematographer and injured a director in Santa Fe, crew members left the set Thursday over safety concerns, the Los Angeles Times reports.

Several camera crew workers at the Bonanza Creek Ranch expressed concern about workplace conditions, including long hours, commutes and claims that some were still waiting on paychecks.

At least one of the camera operators complained about gun safety to a production manager, The Times reports.

Three crew members were on the set last weekend when two accidental prop gun discharges happened. Baldwin's stunt double accidentally fired two rounds after he was told that the gun was "cold."

But it wasn't.

And when Baldwin pulled the trigger Thursday, he also did not know it had ammunition, according to court records.

The film's assistant director told the actor the prop gun was safe to use prior to it discharging and killing Halyna Hutchins and wounding director Joel Souza, who was standing behind her.

An investigation is ongoing.

“The safety of our cast and crew is the top priority of Rust Productions and everyone associated with the company, " Rust Movie Productions said in a statement. “Though we were not made aware of any official complaints concerning weapon or prop safety on set, we will be conducting an internal review of our procedures while production is shut down. We will continue to cooperate with the Santa Fe authorities in their investigation and offer mental health services to the cast and crew during this tragic time.”

Baldwin Friday shared his response to the accident, saying his heart is broken.

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

Read the full Los Angeles Times report.

SEE MORE:

• Halyna Hutchins Shot By Alec Baldwin In Filming Accident
• Alec Baldwin Told Gun Was 'Cold' Before 'Rust' Movie Set Shooting
• Alec Baldwin Fired Prop Gun That Killed Cinematographer: Sheriff