Baldwin's involuntary manslaughter trial: Will the truth unfold?
It has been almost three years since the tragedy on the set of the film "Rust". Alec Baldwin pulled the trigger, and a prop gun fired a bullet that fatally injured cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. The actor is now facing trial for involuntary manslaughter. Will it happen?
The case shook the world at the time. In one of the scenes of "Rust", Alec Baldwin was supposed to use a gun, which accidentally fired. While the director and screenwriter were fortunately only grazed, the cinematographer did not survive. The 42-year-old Halyna Hutchins was transported to the hospital by helicopter, but sadly, she could not be saved.
"I would never point a gun at anyone and then pull the trigger, never. The gun was supposed to be empty; I was told I was handed an empty gun," Baldwin remarked in a high-profile interview with ABC.
Alec Baldwin awaits trial for involuntary manslaughter
The investigation into the matter lasted for many months. Numerous testimonies from crew members, weapon experts, and others emerged. The main culprits identified by the prosecution were Hannah Gutierrez Reed, who was responsible for weapons on the "Rust" set, and Alec Baldwin. In January this year, the actor was charged with involuntary manslaughter.
In response, the star released a statement disputing responsibility for the tragic accident involving the cinematographer. According to him, the gun fired itself, which does not align with the material gathered by the prosecution. In a report published a few days ago, the prosecution claims that the film star shamelessly lied about this matter to avoid legal consequences.
The actor's trial is set to begin on 10 July. However, new information is now emerging from Baldwin's legal team. They want the trial invalidated. They claim the prosecution destroyed a crucial piece of evidence—the Colt 45 revolver. The actor's lawyer, John Bash, argues that the defence was not allowed to examine the weapon in its original state, was not allowed to check it after tests, and that no photos of the internal components were taken.
An expert speaking to "Variety" magazine commented that this is "the most blatant audacity he has ever seen" because, in his opinion, Baldwin's defenders must have known the weapon would be destroyed and did nothing to preserve it as evidence.
According to American media, the actor's trial begins on 10 July and is expected to last at least eight days. However, as the list of witnesses to be questioned is long, it may be extended by a week. Baldwin could face up to 18 months in prison if he is found guilty.
In mid-April, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed already received a verdict in her case. Reed was sentenced to 18 months of imprisonment. It was reported that before the verdict was announced, the judge referred to the woman's lack of remorse.
