Halyna Hutchins: Alec Baldwin in tears after Court verdict

It wasn’t any consolation even if the verdict may have been relieving for Hollywood actor, Alec Baldwin after Court ruling dismissed manslaughter charges against him after the death of cinematographer, Halyna Hutchins on set of the movie, ‘Rust’.

The nearly three-year legal saga involving actor Alec Baldwin and the tragic on-set death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins ended abruptly on July 12. Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer dismissed the involuntary manslaughter case against Baldwin, citing significant prosecutorial errors in evidence handling.

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The case’s dismissal came after Baldwin’s attorneys argued that state investigators failed to disclose critical evidence, specifically a box of ammunition linked to the case delivered by a man to investigators.

This procedural oversight proved pivotal, with Judge Sommer ruling that the state’s discovery violation warranted a dismissal with prejudice, preventing the case from being refiled.

“This dismissal ensures the integrity of the judicial system and the efficient administration of justice,” Judge Sommer stated, concluding the intense hearing with a simple, “Have a great weekend.”

The courtroom, filled with Baldwin’s family and supporters, witnessed emotional scenes as the decision was announced. Baldwin, who had maintained his innocence throughout, broke into tears and embraced his wife, Hilaria, in a moment of relief.

The involuntary manslaughter charges stemmed from an incident on October 21, 2021, on the New Mexico set of the film “Rust.” Baldwin was rehearsing a cross-draw maneuver with a prop gun when it discharged a live round, resulting in Hutchins’ death and injuring director Joel Souza.

During the trial, the prosecution argued that Baldwin violated fundamental firearm safety rules. However, Baldwin’s defense team contended that the responsibility lay with the film’s armorer, Hannah Gutierrez Reed, and first assistant director, Dave Halls, who were responsible for ensuring the prop gun’s safety.

“This was an unspeakable tragedy, but Alec Baldwin committed no crime. He was an actor, acting, playing the role of Harlan Rust,” Baldwin’s attorney, Alex Spiro, stated, emphasizing that standard firearm safety protocols differ on a film set.

The trial’s dismissal marks the third and final criminal proceeding related to the “Rust” incident. Previously, Gutierrez Reed was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter and sentenced to 18 months in prison. Halls accepted a plea deal for negligent use of a deadly weapon, resulting in six months of probation and a suspended sentence.