The movie director who was shot by Alec Baldwin during a movie rehearsal, Joel Souza, testified at trial that he was approaching the cinematographer, Halyna Hutchins, when he heard a loud bang and felt the impact of the bullet. Souza described the moment as chaotic, with crew members yelling for help and trying to assist Hutchins, who was lying on the ground. He recalled feeling blood on his shirt and realizing that he had also been shot in the shoulder.
Souza’s testimony shed light on the events leading up to the tragic shooting on the set of the movie “Rust.” He explained that he was discussing a scene with Hutchins and Baldwin when he turned around to grab a prop gun from a cart. As he walked back towards them, he heard the gun go off and felt the bullet strike him. Souza’s account of the incident provided a firsthand perspective on the chaos and confusion that ensued in the aftermath of the shooting.
During his testimony, Souza expressed his shock and disbelief at what had happened, stating that he initially thought the gunshot was a “dummy round.” He described the moment as surreal and overwhelming, with crew members scrambling to help Hutchins and him as they awaited medical assistance. Souza’s emotional testimony highlighted the trauma and devastation caused by the shooting, which resulted in the loss of a talented cinematographer and left him with physical and emotional scars.
The trial has raised questions about safety protocols on film sets and the use of firearms in movie productions. Souza’s testimony underscored the need for stricter safety measures and increased awareness of the potential dangers involved in handling weapons on set. The incident has sparked a broader conversation within the film industry about the risks and responsibilities associated with using firearms in film production, prompting calls for greater oversight and accountability.
As the trial continues, Souza’s testimony serves as a crucial piece of evidence in determining the circumstances surrounding the shooting and holding those responsible accountable. His firsthand account of the events leading up to the tragic incident provides insight into the sequence of events and the impact of the shooting on the cast and crew of the movie “Rust.” The trial will ultimately shed light on the failures in safety protocols that led to this preventable tragedy and hopefully lead to reforms that prioritize the well-being and security of everyone involved in film production.
