Alec Baldwin-starrer 'Rust' production shuts down until probe is complete

The makers of 'Rust' are suspending filming while authorities investigate the circumstances of the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins that occurred when a gun handled by Alec Baldwin discharged on October 21.

As per Variety, actors were rehearsing for the film, which was being shot at the Bonanza Creek Ranch near Santa Fe, New Mexico, when the gun was discharged after Baldwin had been told it was a cold or unloaded gun.

The Santa Fe Sheriff's search warrant executed on Friday indicated the deputy arriving at the scene was told that assistant director Dave Halls did not know there was a live round in the gun when he yelled "cold gun".

"As we go through this crisis, we have made the decision to wrap the set at least until the investigations are complete," said the statement from the 'Rust' production company.

The letter went on to say that director Joel Souza is recovering, and the production is "supporting him however we can."

Producers reiterated that they are conducting an internal review of safety protocols, but reminded that "we are limited in our ability to say anything further publicly or privately" since it is an ongoing investigation.

"Our hearts are with all of you, as we all go through this tragic time and mourn the loss of our colleague and dear friend, Halyna Hutchins," the statement said.

The statement further stated that the producers remain in close touch with Hutchins' family.

The production team said that it had arranged in-person and virtual grief counsellors for cast and crew members. Producers will also be donating to the AFI Halyna Hutchins Scholarship Fund and will be matching any donations by the crew.

"Although our hearts are broken, and it is hard to see beyond the horizon, this is, at the moment, a pause rather than an end. The spirit that brought us all to this special place remains," the statement from the production team said.

The Santa Fe Sheriff's Office has set a news conference regarding the investigation on Wednesday.

A petition has been created asking Alec Baldwin to "use his power and influence in the Hollywood film industry to make change and ban real guns on film sets."

Over 22,000 people to date have signed the petition, including actors Olivia Wilde and Holland Taylor.