By The FirstIn a surprising turn of events, Deadline.com has reported that all charges against actor Alec Baldwin in connection with the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of the movie “Rust” are to be dropped. This news comes less than two weeks before Baldwin’s trial was scheduled to begin in New Mexico.
Baldwin had previously pleaded not guilty to the charges of manslaughter, which were brought by the Santa Fe district attorney. However, his legal team has since released a statement saying they are “pleased with the decision to dismiss the case against Alec Baldwin”.
The statement from Baldwin’s attorneys, Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro, goes on to say: “We encourage a proper investigation into the facts and circumstances of this tragic accident”. The Santa Fe District Attorney’s office declined to comment on the matter when contacted by Deadline.
The film’s former armorer, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, is still facing charges of involuntary manslaughter in connection with the shooting. It is unclear at this time how the dismissal of Baldwin’s charges will affect her case.
Filming for “Rust” is due to resume in Montana this week, following a lengthy hiatus since the incident occurred in October 2021. The news of Baldwin’s cleared charges will likely come as a relief to the film’s production team, who have faced significant setbacks and scrutiny in the wake of Hutchins’ death.
