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Security Guard Killed On The Set Of 'NCIS'

SANTA CLARITA (CBS) — A security guard was killed Wednesday on the set of "NCIS."

According to the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff, the guard, 60-year-old Julio Garcia of Reseda, was hit by a van whose driver lost consciousness.

Sheriff's Sargeant Michael Konecny said the accident occured about 10:10 a.m. at 24800 Avenue Rockefeller, a vacant industrial building often used for film and television productions.

CBS made a statement regarding the on-set accident.  "Everyone at the network, the studio and NCIS is devastated by the news. Our hearts grieve for his family and friends for this tragic loss. We are, of course, cooperating with the local authorities in Santa Clarita to help determine what caused this terrible accident. Production on the show has been suspended."

The producers of the popular CBS drama also released a statement: "With profound sympathy we mourn the tragic passing of our co-worker and friend. 'NCIS' is a family. And, as with any family, we are deeply saddened by this unexpected loss. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his loved ones."

"NCIS" star Pauley Perrette (she plays Abby Sciuto) tweeted about the tragedy Wednesday afternoon. She wrote: "It was a tragic accident on the 'NCIS' set/ We are all mourning. 'NCIS' cast & crew is a tight knit family. We love each other. All prayers to the family of our security guard. We lost one of our own today."

Officials said the driver was identified as Ralph Blunt, 60, of Pasadena.

He was pronounced dead at Henry Mayo Memorial Hospital.

(©2010 CBS Local Media, a division of CBS Radio Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Wire services contributed to this report.)

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