Introduction:
Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, the armorer involved in the tragic shooting on the set of Alec Baldwin’s film ‘Rust,’ is now confronted with a distinct legal challenge—a separate gun charge unrelated to the on-set incident.
The Unrelated Gun Charge:
Gutierrez-Reed was indicted in New Mexico for unlawfully carrying a firearm in a licensed liquor establishment. This charge precedes the cinematographer’s death on the ‘Rust’ set by a few weeks, adding a new layer of complexity to her legal battles.
Her attorney alleges that this charge is part of a broader “smear campaign” against Gutierrez-Reed, asserting its lack of connection to the film set or the tragic incident.
Legal Defense and Trial Timeline:
According to Gutierrez-Reed’s attorney, Jason Bowles, this new charge is portrayed as a move by the special prosecutor to strengthen the case against her, given the perceived weakness of the ‘Rust’-related charges.
The trial for the involuntary manslaughter charge, to which Gutierrez-Reed has pleaded not guilty, is scheduled to commence in late February.
Release of Unseen Videos:
Coinciding with this legal development, previously unreleased videos featuring Alec Baldwin on the ‘Rust’ set have emerged.
These videos, dated October 2021, showcase Baldwin engaging with firearms and discussing safety measures on set. The footage, obtained exclusively by NBC, provides a glimpse into the days leading up to the tragic incident.
Baldwin’s Safety Discussions:
In the videos, Baldwin can be seen actively participating in safety discussions with the cast and crew, emphasizing precautions and expressing concerns for the well-being of the team. The actor, who has consistently maintained not pulling the trigger, is captured in various scenes involving firearms.
Legal Repercussions for Baldwin:
Despite the dismissal of the involuntary manslaughter charge against Baldwin in April, prosecutors are now reevaluating the case.
New analysis of the weapon involved in the incident has prompted special prosecutors to consider recharging Baldwin. His attorneys have criticized the ongoing legal proceedings, framing them as a “misguided prosecution.”
Conclusion:
As the legal saga surrounding the ‘Rust’ tragedy continues, the emergence of additional charges against Gutierrez-Reed and the release of unseen videos contribute to the intricate narrative surrounding the high-profile case.
The upcoming trial and potential reevaluation of charges against Baldwin underscore the complexity of seeking justice in the aftermath of the on-set fatality.