Tributes have been paid to Joi 'SJ' Harris, the female stunt performer who was killed in a motorcycle crash on the set of the Ryan Reynolds-starring superhero sequel Deadpool 2 in Vancouver, Canada.
The fatal crash happened during filming on Monday morning in the British Columbian city. Witnesses said the stunt rider appeared to lose control of her motorbike, which crashed through the window of Shaw Tower in the city's downtown area.
Harris was 40 years of age. After making her name in road racing, Deadpool 2 was the New Yorker's first film as a stunt driver.
Reacting to the news, Ryan Reynolds wrote on Instagram: "Today, we tragically lost a member of our crew while filming ‘Deadpool. We’re heartbroken, shocked and devastated … but recognize nothing can come close to the grief and inexplicable pain her family and loved ones must feel in this moment. My heart pours out to them — along with each and every person she touched in this world."
In a statement, law enforcement officials in Vancouver said: "Vancouver Police can confirm that a female stunt driver has died on the set of Deadpool during a stunt on a motorcycle." British Columbia's safety agency, WorkSafeBC, and Coroner's Service are also investigating the crash.
A stunt driver has died on the set of Deadpool during a stunt on a motorcycle. VPD & @WorkSafeBC investigators are at the scene.
— Vancouver Police (@VancouverPD) August 14, 2017
20th Century Fox also released a statement saying: "We are deeply saddened by the accident that occurred on the set of Deadpool 2 this morning. Our hearts and prayers are with the family, friends and colleagues of our crew member during this difficult time."
Based on the Marvel Comics hero of the same name, Deadpool 2 is the follow-up to the acclaimed 2016 action movie which took $783m at the box office.
Due for release in cinemas on June 1, 2018, it is directed by Atomic Blonde and John Wick director David Leitch.
