Alec Baldwin and weapons specialist Hannah Gutierrez-Reed are facing two types of manslaughter charges in connection to the fatal shooting of a cinematographer on the set of the Western movie “Rust.” The charges include involuntary manslaughter, which requires proof of negligence, and reckless disregard of safety, which includes a firearm enhancement. If convicted, the pair could face up to five years in prison.
The defense for Baldwin is complicated by his role as both lead actor and co-producer on “Rust.” He has sued people involved in handling and supplying the weapon, claiming he was assured the gun did not have live rounds and that he pulled the trigger when it discharged.
Hannah Gutierrez-Reed was hired to supervise weapons, ammunition and training on “Rust” and is accused of loading a bullet into the gun that killed the cinematographer without noticing the difference between a live and a dummy round. If convicted, she could face up to five years in prison.
The case has been ongoing, and the tragedy of a life lost has brought attention to the need for better safety protocols on movie sets. While filming has been halted on “Rust” pending the outcome of the trial, the court is expected to reach a verdict soon. Many are waiting to see how this case will be resolved, and what the consequences will be for Baldwin and Gutierrez-Reed.
