IATSE is mourning James “Trapper” McEvoy, a crew member who was killed during production in Louisiana on Monday.
McEvoy, 64, was electrocuted after coming in contact with an energized power line, said Sgt. Brandon Veal of the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. According to the coroner’s office, he was elevated on a boom truck when he came in contact with the high-voltage wire.
“Today we grieve the loss of one of our fellow members who was killed in a tragic incident on a production filming in Louisiana,” an IATSE spokesperson said in a statement. “Our deepest condolences are with the family who lost a loved one, and the crew who lost a friend and colleague. All workers have a right to safety on the job.”
McEvoy was working on “Kill Me Now,” an independent feature set to begin filming on Tuesday. The incident occurred around 1 p.m. at Magnolia Lane Plantation on River Road in Bridge City.
McEvoy was pronounced dead at the scene.
“We are devastated by the tragic loss of James ‘Trapper’ McEvoy, a beloved member of the New Orleans film community,” said Lynn Gilman Williams, the lead producer, in a statement. “Our hearts go out to his family, friends and all who knew him and worked alongside him during this difficult time.”
The plantation was previously used as a location in “12 Years a Slave.”
A spokesperson for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration did not respond to a request for comment due to the government shutdown.
McEvoy was a member of IATSE Local 478, which covers the art department, construction, allied crafts, electrics, greens, grips and props. According to its website, its jurisdiction encompasses the entire state of Louisiana, all areas south of the 33rd parallel in Mississippi, and a 60-mile radius around Mobile within Alabama boundaries.
McEvoy’s friends left condolences on IATSE’s Facebook post. McGuire wrote, “He was a great man and friend of over 20 years. His loss is great and he will be dearly missed.”
James Rushin, a fellow IATSE member and on-set greensman posted, “R.i.p brother Trapper.
He was a good man, highly respected and admired by everyone I know here at the 478. Sincere condolences to his family and friends.”
According to his LinkedIn page, McEvoy was a trainer on OSHA safety courses through the union. He had been with the union since 2005.
IATSE said it has engaged with the Entertainment Community Fund to provide counseling for crew members.
Gene Maddaus contributed to this story.
