By The Nexus Gazette.
10th July, 2024.
Actor Alec Baldwin is currently on trial in New Mexico, nearly three years after a tragic incident on the set of the film “Rust” resulted in the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. Here’s what you need to know about the case:
In October 2021, while rehearsing a scene at a ranch outside Santa Fe, Alec Baldwin, handling what he believed to be a prop gun loaded with blanks, discharged the firearm. Tragically, a live round struck and fatally wounded Halyna Hutchins, the film’s cinematographer. Director Joel Souza was also injured in the incident.
Alec Baldwin, aged 66, has entered a plea of not guilty to charges of involuntary manslaughter. He asserts that he was handed a prop gun for rehearsal, unaware that it contained live ammunition. Baldwin maintains that he did not intentionally pull the trigger. Statements he made to the press and law enforcement following the incident are expected to be key evidence in the trial.
Special prosecutor Kari Morrissey argues that Alec Baldwin bears criminal responsibility for the shooting. Morrissey contends that Baldwin was aware he had been handed a real firearm, specifically requested the largest available weapon, and neglected to participate in standard safety checks. The prosecutor asserts that Hutchins’ death resulted from Baldwin’s negligence and disregard for safety protocols on set.
Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, the film’s armorer responsible for handling firearms and ammunition, was previously convicted of involuntary manslaughter due to her role in the incident. Gutierrez-Reed’s failure to properly manage the weapons and ammunition led to the tragic outcome. She is currently serving an 18-month prison sentence.
As the trial unfolds, the prosecution and defense will present their cases, examining the events leading up to the shooting, Baldwin’s actions and responsibilities, and the broader implications for film industry safety standards.
For ongoing coverage and updates on Alec Baldwin’s trial and related developments, visit:
The trial of Alec Baldwin for involuntary manslaughter in the ‘Rust’ shooting continues to draw significant attention, highlighting critical issues of safety and responsibility in the entertainment industry.
Resources:
3.https://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-64824526