A New Mexico judge is currently reviewing Alec Baldwin’s request to dismiss a grand jury indictment against him for involuntary manslaughter in the shooting death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. Baldwin, who was filming the movie “Rust” at a ranch near Santa Fe, has pleaded not guilty to the charge. His defense argues that prosecutors mishandled the grand jury proceedings and ignored exculpatory evidence.
The incident occurred during a rehearsal when Baldwin was handling a prop gun that unexpectedly fired, killing Hutchins and injuring the director. Baldwin claims he did not pull the trigger but only pulled back the gun’s hammer. Prosecutors refute this claim, citing inconsistencies in Baldwin’s statements to law enforcement and in interviews.
The indictment against Baldwin presents two possible standards for prosecution based on the negligent use of a firearm or causing death without due caution. Defense attorneys also allege that the grand jury was not presented with testimony from key witnesses, including the film’s director.
After the shooting, filming for “Rust” resumed in Montana under an agreement with Hutchins’ family. A wrongful death lawsuit was settled, and Baldwin claims he was offered a deal to plead to a minor offense before the grand jury was convened but the offer was revoked before he could respond.
