'9-1-1' Crew Member Rico Priem Dies in Tragic Car Accident Following Exhausting 14-Hour Shift

911 Crew Member Killed in Car Accident After Working 14Hour Shift on Set

911 Cast Disney/Justin Stephens

9-1-1 crew member Rico Priem tragically passed away in a car accident. He had just finished a long 14-hour shift on the set of the ABC series.

Priem was a dedicated grip and crew member with the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees Local 80. According to the California Highway Patrol, he was driving his Toyota Highlander after his shift on Saturday, May 11th, when the vehicle veered off the road and flipped onto its roof.

Priem was declared dead at the scene, with his identity disclosed by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner. IATSE also verified his passing.

In a statement, IATSE expressed their deep sympathy to the family of the member and emphasized their unwavering dedication to the safety and well-being of all members. They stated, "Workers should be able to go to work and return home safely. It is important that no one is put in harm's way while trying to earn a living."

Matt Loeb, president of IATSE, expressed his shock and sadness over the tragedy. He stated, “Everyone in the IA family is shocked and deeply saddened by this tragic loss.” The organization is working to support the member’s family, colleagues, and fellow members. Safety is the top priority for their members, and they are ready to assist in any investigation.

In response to the tragedy, the show’s studio, 20th Television, extended their heartfelt condolences to Rico Priem’s family and friends.

Nina Moskol, Priem’s colleague on 9-1-1, shared some heartfelt words about him. She mentioned that they had worked together just last week. According to her, Priem was about to retire, with all his paperwork sorted out. He had big plans for his retirement, such as spending time with his wife, watching his grand-nephew grow up, riding his Harley, and continuing to work as a grip to stay connected with friends. Nina shared these details on the Crew Stories Instagram account on May 12th. She mentioned that Priem was excited about retiring and wanted to share his knowledge about retirement with others in the local community.

Moskol emphasized that the most critical times of the day are when commuting to work and heading back home. She advised everyone to prioritize safety by driving carefully, taking breaks if necessary, and being cautious on the road.

For years, union members have been vocal about the excessively long production hours, leading to a strike in 2021. As a result, the union successfully secured a 54-hour weekend break to prevent late shifts that stretch into Saturday mornings. With the current contract set to expire on July 31, IATSE is currently in negotiations with studios to finalize the Basic Agreement by the end of the month.

Editor's P/S:

The tragic loss of Rico Priem, a dedicated crew member of "9-1-1," is a somber reminder of the risks that production crews face. The long hours and demanding nature of their work can take a toll on their well-being, and it is heartbreaking to see such a talented individual lose their life in this way. IATSE's unwavering commitment to safety is commendable, and their efforts to secure reasonable working hours are crucial to prevent similar tragedies.

The issue of long production hours has been a persistent concern within the industry. The 2021 strike highlights the determination of union members to prioritize their health and safety. As IATSE continues negotiations with studios, it is essential to find a balance that allows for both creative freedom and the well-being of the crew. By addressing these concerns, the industry can create a more sustainable and safer environment for those who work tirelessly to bring entertainment to our screens.