Wes Ball, director of all three “Maze Runner” films, says he is “overwhelmed with feelings of anger and sadness and guilt” after Dylan O’Brien’s accident Thursday on the set of Maze Runner: The Death Cure.
O’Brien and Ball were working on a ranch outside of Cache Creek, British Columbia when the actor reportedly fell from a set and injured his face. The full extent of O’Brien’s injuries is still not known but multiple sources close to the production have said they are not as bad as was first reported by TMZ.
Ball released a handwritten statement via Twitter on Saturday.
“Well, it’s been a whirlwind of emotions these past few days,” Ball wrote. “I’ve been overwhelmed with feelings of anger and sadness and guilt. But ultimately I find myself left with just a deep love and respect for Dylan. He is one tough cookie. I’m sorry for the grief this accident has caused his friends and family as well as my wonderful cast and crew. It’s scary seeing your friend get hurt, but fortunately, Dylan is going to be just fine. After a few weeks of rest and recovery he will be back up and running to finish our adventure together. All the best.”
Many of the stars from the Maze Runner series also weighed in about the accident and their co-star.
Ki Hong Lee– I have no doubt my boy dylanobrien will make a full recovery. I’ll be doing his dance till then.
Dexter Darden – There’s some of our family missing but every moment of every second we are always putting a smile on each others faces. This all starts with our Ace @dylanobrien . We hear all of your positive thoughts and support and trust us it’s the most appreciated! Just make sure you consider the source and get all the correct info about @mazerunnermovie and what’s going on with him! Keep him in your prayers and positive thoughts as my brother DOB makes his way to a speedy recovery! Thanks everyone #getwelldylan
Kaya Scodelario-Davis – Thinking of you Dyl, sending love from all of us, see you soon. Guys, Thank you for your well wishes and love but please get your information from official sources like Fox and Dylan’s publicist. NOT TMZ!
Aml Ameen – Big heartfelt love to Dyl. A speedy recovery my brother. You’re so well regarded. Take care of him Maze Runner family, like I know you will. @dylanobrien
Dylan O’Brien’s accident is under investigation by WorkSafe B. C. which is the provincial government agency that investigates workplace accidents. According to their records, this is the first serious injury on a movie set in the area since a security guard was killed when he was pinned between a tree and a five-ton truck on the set of Falling Skies in September of 2014. Before that, in 2010, there was a propane explosion on the set of The Name of the King: Two Worlds that sent six crew members to the hospital with facial burns.
WorkSafe has “prevention officers” on scene in Cache Creek investigating Dylan O’Brien’s accident now. Following the agency’s regular process, they will gather information including: what led up to the incident, the incident itself, and the actions immediately following the incident. The officers are speaking with workers, the set crew and the employer while on site, and 20th Century Fox will then be required to submit an investigative report to the agency.
The studio reports that production on Maze Runner: The Death Cure is currently halted but will resume.
