Overview:
Jury selection for Alec Baldwin's manslaughter trial has commenced. Baldwin, charged in connection with the 2021 fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of "Rust," will face trial through July 19. The incident occurred while Baldwin was practicing a cross-draw with a Colt .45 revolver that discharged a live round.
Key Details:
- Incident: The shooting took place on the "Rust" film set in Santa Fe, New Mexico, resulting in the death of Hutchins and injury to director Joel Souza.
- Charges: Baldwin was indicted on involuntary manslaughter charges earlier this year after initially having the charge dropped. He has pleaded not guilty.
- Defense Argument: Baldwin's defense argues that he did not pull the trigger and questions the prosecution's claim of his responsibility as a producer.
- Prosecution Argument: The prosecution contends Baldwin was aware of safety obligations and bore responsibility for unsafe conditions on set. However, Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer ruled against presenting this evidence to the jury.
- Key Rulings: Footage of Baldwin handling the firearm is admissible, while videos of him yelling at crew members are excluded.
Other Involved Parties:
- Hannah Gutierrez: The film's armorer, found guilty of involuntary manslaughter, was sentenced to 18 months in prison and has appealed her conviction. She may be called to testify without immunity.
- David Halls: The film’s safety coordinator, sentenced to six months of unsupervised probation.
- Joel Souza: The film’s director, injured in the incident, also expected to testify.
Context and Reactions
Previous Developments:
- Prosecutors: Filed several motions against Baldwin, all denied in pretrial hearings.
- Defense: Filed motions to dismiss the indictment, also denied.
Community Impact:
- The film community continues to mourn Hutchins, with ongoing discussions about on-set safety standards and regulations in the industry.
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