Tragic Loss on the Set of 9-1-1: Crew Member's Life Cut Short in Post-Shift Car Accident

A Heartbreaking Reminder of the Risks Behind the Scenes: The Entertainment Industry Mourns and Reflects

Rico Priem's Fatal Accident

After a grueling 14-hour day on the set of the ABC hit show 9-1-1, Rico Priem's journey home ended in catastrophe. The grip and crew member, affiliated with the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees Local 80, met with a devastating accident. His vehicle, a Toyota Highlander, veered off the road and overturned, leading to fatal consequences. The California Highway Patrol disclosed these harrowing details to Variety, confirming the loss of Priem at the scene.

The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's office took the solemn duty of releasing Priem's identity, while the IATSE publicly acknowledged the tragedy, emphasizing their commitment to the safety and well-being of their members. The union's statement resonated with a poignant message: the expectation of safety for all workers as they earn their livelihood should be a given, not a privilege.

Industry Reactions to the Tragedy

Shockwaves reverberated through the International Alliance as Matt Loeb, the president, expressed his profound sorrow over the loss. He assured that the union would not only support the bereaved family but also the colleagues and fellow members affected by this tragedy. Loeb reiterated the union's unwavering commitment to safety and pledged full cooperation with any ensuing investigations.

20th Television, the studio behind 9-1-1, extended their deepest sympathies to Priem's family and friends, joining a chorus of voices from the industry in mourning the loss of one of their own.

Tributes to a Beloved Crew Member

Nina Moskol, a fellow grip on the series, took to social media to honor her colleague and friend. She shared heartfelt memories of Priem, who was on the brink of retirement, eagerly anticipating a future filled with family, his cherished Harley, and continued connections with his colleagues. Her tribute, shared via the Crew Stories Instagram account, highlighted Priem's enthusiasm for sharing his knowledge about retirement planning with his peers at the local.

Moskol's tribute also served as a stark reminder of the inherent risks crew members face daily, not just on set but in their commutes. Her plea for safety resonated with a community all too familiar with the dangers of their profession.

The Ongoing Struggle for Safer Working Hours

The conversation about the safety of production crews is not new. Union members have long advocated for reasonable working hours, with a notable strike in 2021 leading to the establishment of a 54-hour weekend rest period. This was a step toward mitigating the risks associated with exhaustive workdays that bleed into the early hours of Saturday.

As the current contract nears its expiration on July 31, IATSE is in the throes of negotiating a new Basic Agreement with studios. The outcome of these talks, expected to conclude later in the month, is eagerly awaited by those within the industry who seek to improve the balance between work demands and personal safety.

The Future of IATSE's Safety Initiatives

The tragic passing of Rico Priem has brought the issue of on-set safety to the forefront once again. It serves as a catalyst for change, prompting a reevaluation of the measures in place to protect those who work behind the camera. The entertainment industry is at a crossroads, with the potential to redefine the standards of safety and well-being for its workforce.

As the industry reflects on this loss, there is a collective hope that Priem's legacy will lead to a safer, more humane work environment for all crew members. The future of IATSE's safety initiatives will be closely watched, as they have the power to shape the industry for years to come.