Who Was Jon-Erik Hexum
Jon-Erik Hexum was an American actor and model known for his role on the 1980s television series Cover Up. He gained attention for his work in film and television during the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Circumstances of His Death
On October 12, 1984, Hexum accidentally shot himself in the head while playing a game on the set of Cover Up. He had loaded a .44 Magnum revolver with a blank cartridge and placed it against his temple, believing it was safe. The force of the blank cartridge caused a massive skull fracture and severe brain injury.
Cause of Death and Aftermath
Hexum was rushed to a hospital, where he was declared brain dead. He died on October 18, 1984, six days after the accident. His death was ruled an accidental shooting. The incident highlighted the dangers of using real firearms, even with blanks, on film sets. For more details, see the Biography entry on Jon-Erik Hexum.
