Entertainment
Rust director speaks out for first time after Alec Baldwin fatally shot Halyna Hutchins on set: ‘I’m gutted by the loss of my friend’
Joel Souza was directing the film while Alec Baldwin starred in it and co-produced (Picture: Rex)
Joel Souza, the director of Alec Baldwin’s film Rust, has spoken out for the first time since the actor accidentally fatally shot and killed cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on set.
Souza was also injured in the tragic incident, but was later released from hospital.
He told Deadline in a statement: ‘I am gutted by the loss of my friend and colleague, Halyna. She was kind, vibrant, incredibly talented, fought for every inch and always pushed me to be better.
‘My thoughts are with her family at this most difficult time.
‘I am humbled and grateful by the outpouring of affection we have received from our filmmaking community, the people of Santa Fe, and the hundreds of strangers who have reached out….. It will surely aid in my recovery.’
Hutchins, 42, was reportedly shot in the stomach when Baldwin, 63, discharged the prop gun during filming.
Hutchins was shot and killed on set (Picture: Getty)
In a tweet, the actor said: ‘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.
‘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.’
Baldwin appeared distraught afterwards (Picture: AP)
In a statement, a rep for Rust Movies Productions LLC said: ‘The entire cast and crew has been absolutely devastated by today’s tragedy, and we send our deepest condolences to Halyna’s family and loved ones.
‘We have halted production on the film for an undetermined period of time and are fully cooperating with the Santa Fe Police Department’s investigation.’
They added: ‘We will be providing counseling services to everyone connected to the film as we work to process this awful event.’
More: Alec Baldwin
The Santa Fe Police Department confirmed they are investigating the incident, and that Baldwin willingly gave a statement. He was seen outside the station in tears.
No charges have been filed.
