The charges of manslaughter, against Alec Baldwin have been reinstated in relation to the incident on the set of 'Rust' that resulted in the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.
Initially Baldwin was charged with manslaughter in January 2023. Those charges were later dropped. However prosecutors have now decided to pursue action against the 65 year actor once again.
According to Variety Baldwins defense team previously raised concerns about whether his Colt.45 was functioning at the time the fatal shot was fired.
Here's what happened:
In October 2021 during the preparation for a scene at a ranch near Santa Fe, N.M. a prop gun discharged and tragically took the life of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. This incident took place on the set of Baldwins film, 'Rust.'
Regarding the proceedings:
Despite Baldwins assertion that he never pulled the trigger if convicted he could face a prison sentence of up to 18 months. On January 19 2024 attorneys Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro released a statement expressing their anticipation, for the court proceedings.
According to the report the fatal event occurred when the guns hammer was manually pulled back and cocked followed by the trigger being pulled or depressed. The report stated that despite Baldwins denial of pulling the trigger forensic evidence indicated that it was necessary to pull the trigger in order for the hammer to be released.
Further Investigations:
summer two prosecutors named Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis sent Baldwins firearm, for forensic testing. Forensic experts Lucien and Michael Haag reconstructed the weapon. Concluded that it could only have been fired if someone deliberately pulled the trigger ruling out possible accidents.
Legal Settlement:
In response to this incident Matthew Hutchins, Halyna Hutchins widower filed a death lawsuit against Baldwin. However both parties reached an agreement in October 2022 through mutual settlement discussions. This agreement includes insurance funds and a portion of profits, from the film to benefit their son, who was 9 years old when his mother passed away.
