'The Walking Dead' production company fined over death

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One of the production companies which help produce AMC’s The Walking Dead has been fined for a deadly fall in July.

Authorities said John Bernecker fell more than 20 feet back in the middle of July, landing on concrete. He was rushed to Atlanta Medical Center, where he later died.

Friday, the U.S. Department of Labor said they would impose the maximum fine of $12,675 against Stalwart Films LLC for failing to protect employees from fall hazards.

“This tragedy should serve as a wake-up call for the entertainment industry,” said OSHA Atlanta Regional Administrator Kurt Petermeyer was quoted as saying in a statement sent to FOX 5 News. “The entire industry needs to commit to safety practices for actors and stunt people involved in this type of work.”

Bernecker was an experienced stuntman with a long list of movie credits, according to those close to him. Friends said he was one of the best around and liked to help others with stunts.

The company has 15 days to reply to the fine.

The Walking Dead has been filmed around Georgia, primarily in the town of Senoia, which is located about 30 miles south of Atlanta.

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