Alec Baldwin to Stand Trial for Fatal 2021 ‘Rust’ Shooting, Judge Rules

A New Mexico judge has decided that Alec Baldwin will go to trial this summer for the tragic shooting on the set of ‘Rust’ that resulted in the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. The trial is scheduled to commence in Santa Fe on July 9 and is anticipated to span approximately two weeks.

Motion Rejected

Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer dismissed Baldwin’s plea to dismiss the indictment. Despite concerns raised by the defense regarding the indictment’s formulation and presentation to the Grand Jury, the judge found no evidence of deliberate misconduct by the prosecuting attorney.

Incident Recap

The unfortunate incident occurred during a rehearsal on October 21, 2021, at Bonanza Creek Ranch near Santa Fe. Baldwin was handling a Colt .45 when it discharged, fatally injuring Hutchins and wounding director Joel Souza. Baldwin maintains that he did not pull the trigger, a claim contested by both the FBI and independent analysts.

Legal Proceedings

Baldwin faces charges of involuntary manslaughter and could potentially receive an 18-month prison sentence if convicted. This decision follows a contentious virtual hearing and numerous legal maneuvers by Baldwin’s defense team in attempts to have the case dismissed.

Other Legal Developments

Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, the armorer on the ‘Rust’ set, was sentenced to 18 months in prison for involuntary manslaughter related to the tragedy. She is currently appealing her sentence. Baldwin is also contending with various civil cases in California and New Mexico stemming from the shooting incident.

‘Rust’ Continuation

Despite the legal challenges, filming for ‘Rust’ resumed in early 2023 in Montana. However, the completed project has yet to secure a buyer.

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