Charges Dropped Against Alec Baldwin In Fatal Shooting On 'Rust' Set

Brittany M. Hughes | April 20, 2023
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Charges have been dropped against actor Alec Baldwin in the fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of his movie “Rust” in October of 2021, according to Baldwin’s lawyers.

“We are pleased with the decision to dismiss the case against Alec Baldwin and we encourage a proper investigation into the facts and circumstances of this tragic accident," attorneys Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro said in a joint statement Thursday.

Baldwin was brandishing a Colt .45 while rehearsing a cross-draw for an upcoming scene when the gun reportedly went off, killing 42-year-old Hutchins. Director Joel Souza was also hit, but suffered a non-life-threatening injury.

Related: Manhunt Underway For NC Man Who Shot 6-Year-Old Over a Rogue Basketball

Both Baldwin and the film's armorer, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, were charged with two counts of involuntary manslaughter. Prosecutors alleged that Baldwin had negligently fired the gun on set, causing a fatality. Baldwin, on the other hand, maintained that he had never actually pulled the trigger, and had no idea the gun was loaded with live rounds.

Unlike Baldwin, the charges against Gutierrez-Reed have not been dropped. Baldwin, who had already waived his right to appear at his next hearing on May 3, is currently on-set in Montana where filming on “Rust” is set to continue after a 17-month hiatus.

 

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