In a case that could have wide-ranging implications for film production, the filmmakers of Midnight Rider have been charged with involuntary manslaughter following the death of 27-year-old camera assistant Sarah Jones.

Jones was hit by a freight train on a bridge outside of Savannah, Georgia in the United States, while helping set up for the filming of a dream sequence with star William Hurt on February 20.

William Hurt quit Midnight Runner after death. Credit:Getty Images

The crew had loaded a metal hospital bed across the tracks when an unexpected train appeared, with Jones unable to escape in time.