Actor Alec Baldwin is set to go on trial in New Mexico for a fatal shooting that occurred on the set of the Western film Rust in October 2021. The trial will determine whether Baldwin should be held criminally liable for the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. Baldwin, 66, faces involuntary manslaughter charges, which he denies.
During a scene rehearsal, a gun Baldwin was using went off, fatally striking Hutchins and wounding director Joel Souza. Baldwin maintains that he did not pull the trigger, but prosecutors argue that he failed to follow basic gun safety protocols.
The trial, set to begin with jury selection on Tuesday and opening statements on Wednesday, will delve into the events that led to the tragic shooting on the Rust set. The film’s armourer, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter in Hutchins’ death and sentenced to 18 months in prison.
Key questions in the case revolve around whether Baldwin pulled the trigger or if the gun malfunctioned. Prosecutors argue that Baldwin, as an actor and producer on the film, had a responsibility to ensure the safety of the set. Baldwin’s defence team will need to navigate the complexities of a film set environment to make their case.
While Baldwin is not currently scheduled to testify, the trial is expected to last 10 days. If found guilty, Baldwin could face up to 18 months in prison. Additionally, he faces civil lawsuits, including one brought by Hutchins’ family.
The outcome of the trial will have significant implications for Baldwin’s future, both in terms of potential legal consequences and his career in the entertainment industry.
