Alec Baldwin's trial over 'Rust' set tragedy starts today
Three years after the tragedy on the set of the movie "Rust," Alec Baldwin's trial begins. The actor may be held accountable for involuntary manslaughter. One person has already received such a verdict.
12:07 PM EDT, July 9, 2024
In New Mexico, Alec Baldwin's trial is starting. Let's recall that the actor and his lawyers tried to stop the court proceedings, claiming that the prosecution destroyed a crucial piece of evidence in the case - the Colt 45 revolver - and did not allow the defense to examine the weapon in its original condition. One of the experts speaking to "Variety" magazine commented that this is a tremendous audacity, as he believes Baldwin's defenders must have known the weapon would be destroyed and did nothing to preserve it as evidence.
Death on the set of the movie "Rust"
The case dates back to October 2021. There was a tragic accident on the set of the movie "Rust," being filmed in New Mexico. Alec Baldwin shot the film's cinematographer, Halyna Hutchins when a gun he used in one scene discharged. It contained live rounds instead of blanks. Hutchins was transported to the hospital and died there.
The police investigation lasted for weeks. In interviews, Baldwin said: "I would never point a gun at anyone and then pull the trigger." He added he "has no idea" how live ammunition got onto the movie set.
Ultimately, both the actor and the weapon expert working on the set at that time, Hannah Gutierrez Reed, were charged with involuntary manslaughter. Reed was sentenced to a maximum of 18 months of imprisonment. Will Baldwin receive the same verdict? The trial begins on July 9. The day before, the 66-year-old actor appeared in court for a pretrial hearing, where it was decided that Baldwin's role as a co-producer of the film "Rust" would not be considered. American media reported that this was a small triumph for Baldwin.
Jurors will be selected on the first day. The opening statements from the prosecution and Baldwin's defense will most likely be delivered the next day. The prosecution has to prove that Baldwin completely disregarded safety regulations on the set and was indifferent to what would happen to his colleagues or that he irresponsibly handled the weapon. The trial is expected to last until July 19.
How did the tragedy happen? Those who want to learn the details can watch a new Vodylla production. In the documentary "Alec Baldwin. Shock and Grief," the creators recount the events from three years ago, sharing interviews with the actor, witness statements, and police testimonies.
