Popular Nollywood special effects artist, James Akaie, has reportedly passed away following an explosion during a filming session in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
A film production crew has confirmed the death of a special effects artist, James Akaie,
The incident was disclosed in a statement on the Instagram page the producer and director of the film production, James Abinibi, who described the development as tragic and deeply painful for the production team.
“It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we confirm a tragic accident occurred on location in Abeokuta as filming was coming to a wrap, resulting in the death of our esteemed colleague and friend, James Akaie,” the statement read.
According to the production team, Akaie, a Special Effects and Pyrotechnics Artist, was involved in an unexpected explosion that occurred in a designated effects preparation area outside the main film set.
“During a filming session, a sudden and unexpected explosion occurred in a designated effects preparation area outside the film set, where James was experimenting with an unauthorised pyrotechnic stimulation involving a gas cylinder alongside his two assistants.
“James succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. His two assistants sustained fire burn injuries and were taken to a specialist hospital, where they received immediate medical attention and were later confirmed stable as they continue to receive treatment.”
