Lone Ranger diver dies on set

23 September 2012 Last updated at 07:31 ET

Depp, left, and Hammer in Disney's remake of The Lone RangerThe Western remake stars Johnny Depp and Armie Hammer

Authorities are investigating the apparent drowning of a crew member on the set of forthcoming Johnny Depp film The Lone Ranger, near Los Angeles.

The unnamed 48-year-old diver is thought to have suffered a heart attack while cleaning out a pool that was going to be used in the film.

He was pronounced dead on Friday according to the coroner's spokesman.

Walt Disney studios said: "Our hearts and thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues at this time."

Spokesman Paul Roeder added in a statement: "Our full support is behind the investigation into the circumstances of this terrible event."

Police revealed the man had been wearing scuba equipment to carry out maintenance on a deep pool on a ranch near Palmdale, in the desert north of Los Angeles, where the Western is being filmed.

It is thought he was preparing a tank for an underwater scene to be shot at a later date.

The Lone Ranger, due to be released in July 2013, is a remake of the classic adventure with Depp as Native American spirit warrior Tonto and Armie Hammer in the title role.


Comments