Alec Baldwin Indicted Again in 'Rust' Fatal Shooting Case
Actor Alec Baldwin has been indicted by a New Mexico grand jury on two counts of involuntary manslaughter related to the 2021 fatal shooting on the movie set of "Rust," as per recent court documents. This development marks the second time Baldwin faces charges in the case.
The first count of involuntary manslaughter against Baldwin is described as "negligent use of a firearm." The second count is defined as involuntary manslaughter without due caution or circumspection, indicating an act of total disregard or indifference to the safety of others. Both counts are classified as fourth-degree felonies.
Baldwin's legal team, comprising attorneys Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro, expressed readiness to defend these charges in court, maintaining Baldwin's innocence.
The case revolves around the tragic incident on the "Rust" set, where cinematographer Halyna Hutchins was killed and director Joel Souza was injured after a gun held by Baldwin discharged a live round during a rehearsal. Baldwin has previously denied intentionally pulling the trigger.
Last year, involuntary manslaughter charges against Baldwin were initially dropped due to new facts emerging and constraints on proceeding based on the evidence provided at that time. However, the possibility of refiling charges was left open, and recent developments have led to this new indictment.
Armorer Hannah Gutierrez Reed, also involved in the case, faces similar involuntary manslaughter charges and has pleaded not guilty, with her trial set for February. The film's assistant director, David Halls, who handed the firearm to Baldwin, has entered a plea agreement for negligent use of a deadly weapon, leading to six months of probation.
The Hutchins family, represented by attorney Gloria Allred in a civil lawsuit against Baldwin, seeks truth and accountability in both the civil and criminal proceedings. Halyna Hutchins' widower, Matt Hutchins, declined to comment on the latest developments.
While Baldwin faces two charges, the legal proceedings could result in a conviction for only one of them. If convicted, Baldwin could face up to 18 months in prison and a $5,000 fine.