In a recent development, a US judge has denied actor Alec Baldwin’s motion to dismiss an involuntary manslaughter charge stemming from a tragic incident on the set of the film “Rust” in 2021. The shooting resulted in the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and left director Joel Souza wounded.
Baldwin, who was using the gun that fired the fatal shot, has maintained that he did not pull the trigger and was unaware that the weapon contained live rounds. The actor argued that he should not be held responsible for the tragedy as live ammunition was not supposed to be on set.
The case took a new turn when the weapons handler on set, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, was sentenced to 18 months in prison in April. She has since appealed the conviction.
Baldwin, 66, was indicted in January on the involuntary manslaughter charge after prosecutors presented new forensic evidence. Despite pleading not guilty, the actor’s attorneys filed a motion to dismiss the case, accusing prosecutors of unethical behavior.
However, Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer denied the motion, stating that the grand jury process was not prejudiced against Baldwin. The actor’s legal team expressed their readiness for the upcoming trial.
The incident has sparked a debate on safety protocols on film sets and the responsibility of individuals handling firearms. The trial is scheduled to begin in July, where Baldwin will have the opportunity to present his defense in court.
