Rico Priem : Tragic Death: ‘9-1-1’ Crew Member Killed in Car Crash

A crew member working on the popular TV show 9-1-1 tragically lost his life in a car accident in California early Saturday morning. Rico Priem, a 66-year-old grip, was identified as the victim of the crash, according to reports from Variety. Priem was driving home after a long 14-hour overnight shift when his Toyota Highlander veered off the 57 Freeway, went up an embankment, and flipped onto its roof. Tragically, he was pronounced dead at the scene by the California Highway Patrol.

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The news of Priem’s untimely death has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, with the crew union IATSE expressing their heartfelt condolences to Priem’s family in a statement. The union emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of all crew members, highlighting the need for a safe working environment for everyone in the industry.

President of IATSE, Matt Loeb, expressed his deep sadness over Priem’s passing and reassured that the union was working to provide support to Priem’s family and colleagues during this difficult time. The studio behind 9-1-1, 20th Television, also extended their condolences to Priem’s loved ones in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter.

According to reports, production on 9-1-1 had wrapped at 4:06 a.m. on Saturday, just moments before the tragic accident occurred. Priem had worked two consecutive 14-hour days leading up to the incident, highlighting the gruelling nature of the industry and the long hours that crew members often endure.

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Nina Moskol, another member of IATSE Local 80, paid tribute to Priem on Instagram, describing him as an “extraordinary” best boy grip. Moskol shared fond memories of working with Priem and emphasised the importance of safety for all crew members, especially when it comes to travelling to and from work.

Priem’s impressive career in the industry included work on notable projects such as S.W.A.T., Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, Star Trek, and Ghost World, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter. The cause of the accident is currently under investigation by the California Highway Patrol.

Efforts to Improve Working Conditions

Gruellingly lengthy shoots have long been a concern for IATSE, which is currently in the midst of negotiations with employers to secure a Basic Agreement. The union has been in talks with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, representing Hollywood’s studios and streamers, with discussions expected to conclude later this week.

President Loeb has stated that the union is “constructively engaging” with industry stakeholders to address issues such as working hours and overall working conditions, in an effort to create a safer and more sustainable environment for all crew members.