A New Mexico jury handed down a verdict of guilty for involuntary manslaughter and not guilty for tampering with evidence. The decision came after about two and a half hours of deliberation. The armorer in question, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, faces a potential sentence of up to three years in state prison. The outcome of the nearly two-week criminal trial marked a pivotal moment in the aftermath of the tragic 2021 shooting on the set of the film “Rust”.
During the prosecution’s closing arguments, Gutierrez-Reed was painted as negligent and thoughtless by the prosecutor, Kari T. Morrissey. It was alleged that following the fatal shooting, Gutierrez-Reed was more concerned about her career than the victims involved. However, Gutierrez-Reed’s attorney, Jason Bowles, argued that the prosecution had not definitively proven her responsibility for the live rounds on set. Bowles pointed fingers at actor Alec Baldwin, asserting that he was the one ultimately accountable for the death of cinematographer Haylna Hutchins.
Throughout the trial, eyewitnesses who were present on set during the shooting took the stand to recount the events of that fateful day. Director Joel Souza described the confusion and chaos that followed the shooting, emphasizing that “Nothing made sense.” He further recalled Gutierrez-Reed repeatedly saying, “I’m sorry, I’m sorry, Joel” after the incident. Souza detailed the sensation of being shot, likening it to a baseball bat hitting his shoulder. Safety coordinator Dave Halls, who previously entered a plea deal, testified for the first time publicly about the incident. He expressed regret for not thoroughly checking the firearm and acknowledged his failure in ensuring the proper safety measures were in place.
In their opening statements, the special prosecutor, Jason Lewis, criticized Gutierrez-Reed’s conduct on the “Rust” set, labeling it as sloppy and unprofessional. The prosecution argued that it was Gutierrez-Reed’s negligent actions that led to the tragic death of Hutchins. The trial highlighted the serious implications of on-set safety measures and accountability in the film industry.
The verdict in the case of Hannah Gutierrez-Reed serves as a reminder of the importance of stringent safety protocols on film sets. The tragic events that unfolded during the production of “Rust” resulted in the loss of a talented cinematographer and inflicted lasting trauma on those directly involved. It is imperative for all individuals working in the entertainment industry to prioritize safety above all else to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. The trial may have provided some closure for the victims’ families, but the repercussions of that day will continue to resonate throughout the industry.
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