The armourer working on the Rust film set when Alec Baldwin accidentally discharged a prop gun which killed director of photography Halyna Hutchins has defended her role in the incident.
Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, 24, was in charge of the weapons on the set of the western movie and had set up the gun as well as two others, according to an affidavit from the Sante Fe County Sheriff's Office.
Since the tragedy took place on 21 October, numerous claims emerged that were directed at Ms Gutierrez-Reed from colleagues on the set and people she'd worked with on previous films.
The statement, which was issued by her attorney Jason Bowles, explained how she is 'devastated and completely beside herself over the events that transpired'.
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It goes on to say: "Hannah would like to extend her deepest and most sincere condolences to the family and friends of Halyna.
"She was an inspirational woman in film who Hannah looked up to. She also offers her thoughts and prayers for a speedy recovery to Joel."
The statement went on to 'address some untruths' which she says have 'falsely portrayed and slandered' her involvement in what happened.
It reads: "Safety is Hannah's number one priority on set. Ultimately this set would never have been compromised if live ammo were not introduced. Hannah has no idea where the live rounds came from.
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"Hannah and the prop master gained control over the guns and she never witnessed anyone shoot live rounds with these guns and nor would she permit that.
"They were locked up every night and at lunch and there's no way a single one of them was unaccounted for or being shot by crew members.
"Hannah still, to this day, has never had an accidental discharge."
According to court records, after the shooting Ms Gutierrez-Reed removed a shell casing from the gun and handed it to the police after they had arrived.
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A police press conference revealed that about 500 rounds of ammunition have been recovered from the set, with sheriff Adan Mendoza adding it is still too early to say if criminal charges will be filed.
There was 'some complacency' on the set, the sheriff said, but it is yet to be determined if there was negligence or by whom.
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