The assistant director who handed Alec Baldwin the prop gun that killed cinematographer Halyna Hutchins has broken his silence on the fatal shooting.
According to court records, Dave Halls shouted “cold gun” to indicate the weapon was safe before handing it to the actor on the set of his upcoming film ‘Rust’ in Santa Fe, New Mexico last month.
The gun then went off during rehearsals, accidentally killing 42-year-old Halyna and injuring the movie’s director Joel Souza.
In a statement to The New York Post, Dave said: “Halyna Hutchins was not just one of the most talented people I’ve worked with, but also a friend.”
“I’m shocked and saddened by her death. It’s my hope that this tragedy prompts the industry to reevaluate its values and practices to ensure no one is harmed through the creative process again.”
He added that he’s been “overwhelmed by the love and support,” and said: “My thoughts are with all who knew and loved Halyna.”
It’s understood the assistant director “did not know live rounds were in the prop gun” when it was handed to Alec. The prop gun has since been handed over to the police, who are still trying to determine how live rounds got on the set.
On October 21, officers were called to the Bonanza Creek Ranch in New Mexico at about 1.50 pm, after receiving a 911 call.
Halyna was transported via helicopter to University of New Mexico Hospital, but was later pronounced dead. Joel, 48, was treated for his injuries at Christus St. Vincent Regional Medical Center, and was later released.
In a statement, Alec described the incident as a “tragic accident”.
Taking to Twitter, he wrote: “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 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,” he added.
