Special effects artist James Akaie dies in film set explosion

The Nigerian special effects and pyrotechnics artist, James Akaie has been reported killed following an explosion on a movie set, while the crew was concluding a film shoot in Abeokuta, Ogun State Capital.

Penpushing reports that the sad incident was made known on Friday in a statement by filmmaker James Abinibi adding that the deceased and two assistants were testing an unauthorised pyrotechnic device involving a gas cylinder in a designated preparation area outside the main set when the explosion happened.

The filmmaker in the statement disclosed that Akaie sustained severe injuries and later died in the hospital, explaining that his two assistants suffered burns and were rushed to a specialist hospital, where they are reported to be in stable condition and continue to receive treatment.

“During a filming session, a sudden and unexpected explosion occurred in a designated effects preparation area outside of the film set where James was experimenting on an unauthorized Pyrotechnic stimulation involving a gas cylinder alongside his two assistants,” the statement reads.

“James succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. His two other assistants sustained some fire burns and were immediately taken to a specialist hospital, where they got immediate attention and were later confirmed stable as they continue receiving treatment. The specific circumstances leading to the explosion are currently under a thorough investigation by the relevant authorities’. It added.

Penpushing further reports that Abinibi described late special effect artist as a brilliant and passionate artist who inspired everyone with his craft., and expressed deep sorrow over the loss, as he extended condolences to the family.

The filmmaker confirmed that the production team is fully cooperating with authorities investigating the cause of the explosion, and appealed for privacy for the family as they navigate this unimaginable loss

“We are cooperating fully with this investigation as we further conduct our own internal review. Out of respect for James’s family and the investigative process, we cannot provide further details at this time’, he stated

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