A judge in Santa Fe, N.M., has ruled that the trial of Alec Baldwin on involuntary manslaughter charges related to the accidental shooting on the set of 'Rust' will commence on July 9. Jury selection is set to start on the same day, with testimony scheduled to begin on July 10. The trial is expected to last eight days, concluding on July 19.
Baldwin's legal team, led by Alex Spiro, had requested an earlier trial start date of June 13, emphasizing Baldwin's desire for a speedy resolution. The actor has been contending with the case for several years. However, Prosecutor Kari Morrissey cited scheduling conflicts with another trial in June and proposed July or August for the trial.
The incident in question occurred on Oct. 21, 2021, when Baldwin allegedly fired a live round from a Colt .45 revolver during a scene preparation, resulting in the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and injury to director Joel Souza. Baldwin denies pulling the trigger, claiming he was informed the gun was unloaded before the rehearsal.
If convicted, Baldwin could face up to 18 months in prison. He was indicted by a grand jury on Jan. 19. As both the lead actor and producer of the film, Baldwin's defense team argues against holding him accountable as a producer for safety oversights on set. They plan to challenge this aspect of the case before the trial begins.
Workplace safety investigators determined that Baldwin did not have managerial authority on set beyond his personal assistant. The defense anticipates a relatively swift trial process and intends to file a motion to dismiss the indictment, alleging procedural errors during the grand jury proceedings.
Meanwhile, Hannah Gutierrez Reed, the film's armorer, is also facing trial in Santa Fe on charges of involuntary manslaughter and evidence tampering. Prosecutors allege her negligence and failure to adhere to safety protocols contributed to the tragic outcome on set.
