Rico Priem, a crew member on the ABC series 9-1-1, tragically died in a car crash after working a 14-hour shift on set. Priem, who was a grip and member of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees Local 80, was driving home after his shift when his car flipped over. The California Highway Patrol confirmed his death at the scene, and his identity was released by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner. IATSE expressed its condolences to Priem’s family and emphasized the importance of safety for all workers in the industry.
Matt Loeb, president of IATSE, also released a statement expressing shock and sadness over the loss of Priem. The union is working to support Priem’s family, fellow members, and colleagues during this difficult time. Safety is a top priority for IATSE, and the union will assist with any investigations related to the accident. 20th Television, the studio behind 9-1-1, offered their condolences to Priem’s family and friends as well. Priem’s coworker, Nina Moskol, paid tribute to him and emphasized the dangers of long production hours in the industry.
Moskol shared that Priem was looking forward to retirement and had plans to spend time with his family and pursue his hobbies. She highlighted the risks involved in commuting to and from work and urged everyone to prioritize safety on the road. Union members have been advocating for better working conditions for years, including a strike in 2021 that led to a 54-hour weekend rest period. The union’s current contract is set to expire on July 31, and negotiations are ongoing to address issues such as long hours and safety concerns on set.
The tragic death of Rico Priem has shed light on the importance of safety and well-being for all crew members in the entertainment industry. The incident has prompted discussions about the need for better working conditions and regulations to prevent accidents like this from happening in the future. The union’s efforts to secure adequate rest periods and address safety concerns are crucial steps towards ensuring a safe and healthy work environment for all workers in the industry. Priem’s memory will continue to be honored by his colleagues and loved ones, who are committed to advocating for change in his honor.
