A workplace safety investigator testified at the trial of armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, shedding light on the safety failures that led to the fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of the Western movie 'Rust.' The inspector's testimony revealed that complaints by a movie weapons supervisor regarding the lack of time and resources to fulfill safety duties went unheeded by management.
The inspector's six-month investigation uncovered numerous safety violations, including the failure to enforce firearms safety policies, provide adequate training, and address previous misfires on set. Despite Gutierrez-Reed's requests for more resources, her concerns were reportedly ignored by Rust Movie Productions.
While defense attorneys argue that Gutierrez-Reed is being unfairly blamed for issues beyond her control, prosecutors maintain that she bears responsibility for bringing live ammunition on set and disregarding basic safety protocols.
Witness testimony at the trial has included accounts from eyewitnesses to the shooting, FBI analysts, and individuals involved in the production of 'Rust.' The lead actor and co-producer, Alec Baldwin, who was holding the gun that discharged during the rehearsal, has also been indicted on an involuntary manslaughter charge.
The trial has brought to light the lapses in safety measures on the set of 'Rust,' ultimately resulting in the tragic death of Halyna Hutchins and injuries to director Joel Souza. Rust Movie Productions has already paid a $100,000 fine to address the workplace safety violations identified in the investigation.
In addition to the involuntary manslaughter charge, Gutierrez-Reed faces a separate charge of evidence tampering for allegedly handing a bag of possible narcotics to another crew member after the shooting. The trial continues to unfold as both the defense and prosecution present their arguments regarding the events leading up to the tragic incident on the set of 'Rust.'
