In October 2021, the tragic shooting on the set of the movie ‘Rust’ claimed the life of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and injured director Joel Souza. The incident led to a lawsuit filed by Souza against the production company, armorer, and others involved in the film’s production. Recently, it was reported that a partial settlement of $1.15 million has been awarded to medic Sally Cox, who was also present on the set during the shooting.
Sally Cox was one of the first responders on the scene when the shooting occurred. She provided medical assistance to both Hutchins and Souza before they were transported to the hospital. Cox’s lawsuit alleged that she suffered emotional distress and PTSD as a result of witnessing the shooting and its aftermath. The partial settlement awarded to her is said to cover her medical expenses and lost wages.
The settlement is a significant development in the ongoing legal battle surrounding the ‘Rust’ shooting. It is worth noting that this is only a partial settlement, and the case is still ongoing. The production company, armorer, and others named in Souza’s lawsuit are facing multiple claims of negligence and unsafe working conditions.
The incident has sparked a broader conversation about safety on film sets and the responsibilities of those involved in production. The role of the armorer, who is responsible for handling and maintaining firearms used on set, has come under particular scrutiny. In the case of ‘Rust,’ it was revealed that the armorer, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, had limited experience in her role and had previously been fired from another production for mishandling firearms.
The tragedy has also led to calls for stricter regulations and safety protocols on film sets. In response, several industry organizations have announced plans to review and update their safety guidelines. The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), which represents film and television workers, recently reached a tentative agreement with producers on new safety protocols, including mandatory safety meetings and a hotline for reporting safety concerns.
The ‘Rust’ shooting is a tragic reminder of the importance of safety on film sets and the need for accountability when incidents occur. While the partial settlement awarded to Sally Cox is a step towards justice for those affected by the shooting, it is only one part of a larger legal and cultural reckoning in the film industry. As the investigation and legal proceedings continue, it is crucial that the industry takes concrete steps to ensure that such tragedies never happen again.
