As shared on national news, the cinematographer for the film Rust was accidentally shot dead on set by Alec Baldwin whilst rehearsing with, what he believed to be, a safe gun. Baldwin previously stated that he did not pull the trigger and the colt .45 revolver fired after being cocked. The live bullet inside was not supposed to be on the property.
The New Mexico Environment Department said that the film makers showed “plain indifference to recognised hazards associated with use of firearms on set”. They also commented that there were several serious management failures. As a result of this, the producers of the film received a $136,793 fine (£105,000), the maximum that can be issued.
Alec Baldwin was exonerated as he and the assistant director believed the weapon housed dummy rounds and indicated it was unloaded by shouting ‘cold gun’ when handing it to Baldwin.
The production company are appealing the verdict as they disagree with the findings.