How could something like this happen? Hollywood star Alec Baldwin fired a prop gun while filming the western Rust, killing camerawoman Halyna Hutchins and seriously injuring director Joel Souza. Little by little, more and more details about the terrible accident are coming to light. US media have now published the panicked emergency call – and it makes it clear how dramatic the situation on the film set was.
I think there is one gunshot wound per person
One day after the tragedy, the audio recording of the emergency call made the rounds on the internet. “Two people were accidentally shot with a movie gun on a movie set. We need help immediately," says one woman, describing what happened at Bonanza Creek Ranch. According to several reports, this is screenwriter Mamie Mitchell.
When the operator on the other end asked if real bullets were fired from the gun, Mitchell couldn't answer. She also couldn't say how "heavy the bleeding" was because she "ran straight away to call 911." The shots were fired during a scene rehearsal, she continues.
Shortly thereafter, Mitchell is relieved by a man who explains that both people are "conscious" and that a paramedic is taking care of first aid: "I don't know exactly where they were hit. I believe there is one gunshot wound per person."
quarrels and accusations
However, the emergency call also reveals the chaotic conditions on the set. After caller Mamie Mitchell appears calm and level-headed at first, the call becomes increasingly dramatic as it progresses. On the tape recording, you can clearly hear her arguing with another person in the background. There are harsh accusations and swear words. Mitchell calls out, "Can you please not yell at me? He should check the guns. He's in charge!”
Who is meant by ER is not clear. The screenwriter does not give a name. According to media reports, she means assistant director Dave Halls. According to the investigative report, he handed Alec Baldwin the gun that fired the fatal shot. The crew member previously pointed out that it was safe and contained no live ammunition. According to court documents, neither the actor nor the assistant director knew that the film's gun was loaded with live bullets.
