A tragic accident has claimed the life of 64-year-old James “Trapper” McEvoy, a veteran grip in the New Orleans film industry, who was electrocuted while working on the set of the upcoming horror movie Kill Me Now.
According to Deadline, McEvoy was on the job Monday, Nov. 3, preparing for the film’s first week of production when the fatal incident occurred. Authorities told Variety and CBS affiliate WWL that he was working inside a truck when he came into contact with a live power line.
Lynn Gilman Williams, a lead producer on the film, released a statement expressing the team’s sorrow. “We are devastated by the tragic loss of James ‘Trapper’ McEvoy, a beloved member of the New Orleans film community,” Williams said. “Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and all who knew him and worked alongside him during this difficult time.”
McEvoy, a native of New Orleans, had an impressive career that included work on major productions such as Pitch Perfect and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. He was also a proud member of IATSE Local 478, which paid tribute to him on social media.
“We are heartbroken by the loss of a crew member killed in a tragic incident while working on a production here in Louisiana,” the union wrote on Facebook. “Our film community is close-knit, and when one of us is lost, the pain is felt by all. Our hearts are with the family, friends, and fellow crew members grieving this unimaginable loss.”
The organization emphasized its continued dedication to workplace safety: “We believe every worker deserves to come home safe, and we remain committed to protecting the safety, dignity, and well-being of all crew members.”
IATSE Local 478 also invited friends and colleagues to share memories of McEvoy for his family. One woman recounted meeting him during her first professional rigging job at Super Bowl LI in Houston in 2016. “He was the most supportive voice one could have right out of school,” she wrote. “His positive energy and perpetual light will live on in so many of us he touched.”
Another colleague remembered McEvoy’s dedication and friendship. “Whenever we had a project, he was always on top of it—concerned about doing it right and making it safe,” the post read. “I will truly miss his friendship and those many nights.”
