A New Mexico judge has upheld the involuntary manslaughter conviction of movie armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed in connection with the tragic shooting incident on the set of the film 'Rust,' where cinematographer Halyna Hutchins lost her life. The incident occurred when actor Alec Baldwin discharged a firearm during a rehearsal, resulting in Hutchins' death and director Joel Souza's injury.
Gutierrez-Reed had sought to have her conviction dismissed or a new trial convened, citing alleged misconduct and evidence suppression by law enforcement. However, Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer ruled in favor of upholding the conviction, which was handed down by a jury earlier this year.
During the trial, prosecutors argued that Gutierrez-Reed was responsible for bringing live ammunition onto the set and failing to adhere to proper gun safety protocols. Despite being acquitted of evidence tampering charges related to the 'Rust' investigation, Gutierrez-Reed still faces a separate felony charge for allegedly carrying a gun into a bar where firearms are prohibited.
While Baldwin's trial was halted in July due to misconduct by law enforcement and prosecutors, Gutierrez-Reed's conviction stands. She has already filed an appeal in a higher court challenging the verdict.
The tragic incident on the 'Rust' set has raised significant concerns about safety protocols in the film industry and the responsibilities of individuals handling firearms on movie sets. The case continues to be closely watched as legal proceedings unfold.
