On Thursday, Alec Baldwin fired a prop gun on the set of Rust in New Mexico, causing the death of the film's cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. The director of Rust, Joel Souza, was injured in the accident. Rust, an independent feature, was being filmed at the Bonanza Creek Ranch, a popular production location south of Santa Fe.

Juan Rios, a spokesman for the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office, confirmed the news to a publication and informed that Halyna, 42, was killed in the accident whereas Joel was injured around 1:50 p.m.on Thursday while the unit was on the set of Rust. In a statement, Rios said, "We’re trying to determine right now how and what type of projectile was used in the firearm." The Sheriff’s Office interviewed people on the set to determine how the two were shot.

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As per reports, Halyna was airlifted to Albuquerque’s University of New Mexico Hospital. However, she couldn't survive. Joel is currently receiving emergency care at another hospital. As of now, the shooting of Rust has been stalled. Alec is producing as well as starring in the film. Rios told the publication that the Sheriff’s Office hasn't filed charges against anyone in connection with the shooting.

Rust is said to revolve around a 13-year-old boy who goes on the run with his estranged grandfather after the accidental killing of a local rancher. 

In 1993, a similar incident took place on a film set in which Brandon Lee, the son of Bruce Lee, was shot and killed during a scene when a bullet that was lodged in the barrel of a gun was discharged along with a blank cartridge.

(Source: Variety/New York Times)