Part 7/11:
Despite regular safety meetings—especially for a Tier 1 production like Rust, which was reportedly made under a budget of approximately six million dollars—the presence of live rounds on set indicates a failure in protocol. The industry widely recognizes the importance of strict weapon safety, including rigorous checking of firearms and ammunition, yet lapses still occur.
In a statement, the production team expressed their devastation and announced the suspension of filming, offering counseling services for the cast and crew. The incident underscores the need for even greater caution and oversight when dealing with real or simulated firearms in film productions.