In New Mexico, Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer has allowed actor Alec Baldwin to proceed to trial for involuntary manslaughter following a fatal shooting on the set of the movie “Rust.”
Baldwin, who entered a plea of not guilty, stands accused of negligently firing a prop gun that tragically caused the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins in 2021. The upcoming trial, scheduled to commence on July 9 in Santa Fe, will focus on determining whether Baldwin discharged the firearm and assessing any issues of mishandling or mechanical failure with the prop gun.
Central to Baldwin’s defense is the contention that the prop gun malfunctioned unexpectedly, with his legal team arguing that crucial evidence, the gun itself, was improperly handled by investigators. Prosecutors assert that Baldwin’s actions were reckless throughout filming, highlighting his responsibilities as both a producer and actor on the set of the low-budget western.
Alec Baldwin
The incident occurred during preparations for a scene where Baldwin’s character was to draw a pistol from a holster, leading to a tragic misfire. Baldwin maintains that he was unaware a live round was loaded, believing the gun to be safe (“cold”).
Responsibility for weapon safety, according to Baldwin and supported by the actors’ union SAG-AFTRA, rested with the film’s armorer, Hannah Gutierrez, who was later convicted of involuntary manslaughter.
The legal proceedings have been marked by disputes over evidence handling, including accusations that key evidence was improperly destroyed. Baldwin’s defense team alleges that these actions compromised their ability to demonstrate the gun’s potential faults. Meanwhile, prosecutors have countered with expert testimony suggesting the gun was functional and required deliberate action to discharge.
The case has faced numerous legal twists, including initial charges being dropped and later reinstated amid allegations of evidence concealment. These complexities underscore the tragic and legally contentious aftermath of the “Rust” set shooting, casting a spotlight on industry safety protocols and the accountability of those involved in film production.
