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02nd Nov 2021

Man who handed Alec Baldwin loaded gun “shocked and saddened” by Halyna Hutchins death

Ellen Fitzpatrick

It’s the first time he has spoken about it.

The assistant director who handed Alec Baldwin the loaded gun that killed Halyna Hutchins has broken his silence about the devastating incident.

David Halls announced “cold gun” before handing it to Baldwin, indicating that the firearm was safe to use on the set of Rust in New Mexico, according to court records.

Speaking out about the tragedy, Halls said he hopes that the shooting will lead to a change in the industry.

In a statement to the New York Post, Halls spoke out about the shooting for the first time, saying he was “shocked and saddened” by the accident.

He said: “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.”

It is still unknown how a live round was in the gun at the time but it is set to be a key finding of the police investigation.

Hannah Gutierrez Reed, the film’s armorer, said that there should not have been live ammunition present on set.

Hutchins, a director of photography, was killed on the set of the film, Rust when a prop gun held by Baldwin was discharged.

Joel Souza, the film’s director, was also injured in the accident.

In a series of tweets, Baldwin said that he is “fully cooperating” with police regarding the incident. He added that his heart is “broken” for Hutchins’ family.

“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,” he wrote.

“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.”