Daniel Thompson
Mar 07, 2024 - 04:05

Rust armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed found guilty of involuntary manslaughter

New Mexico jury finds "Rust" armorer guilty of involuntary manslaughter in fatal on-set shooting, faces up to 18 months in prison.

In a New Mexico courtroom, a jury delivered a verdict in the case of "Rust" armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, finding her guilty of involuntary manslaughter and not guilty of tampering with evidence. The jury deliberated for about 2½ hours before reaching their decision.

Gutierrez-Reed, 26, now faces a potential sentence of up to 18 months in state prison. Following the verdict, she was taken into custody and will remain there until her sentencing. The courtroom was tense as the jury foreperson read the verdicts, with Gutierrez-Reed showing little emotion and her mother visibly distressed.

The trial focused on the tragic shooting on the "Rust" film set in 2021, where actor Alec Baldwin held a prop gun that discharged a live round, resulting in the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and injuring director Joel Souza. The prosecution argued that Gutierrez-Reed was negligent and careless, while Gutierrez-Reed's attorney placed blame on Baldwin for the incident.

Throughout the trial, eyewitnesses provided emotional testimony, recounting the chaos and confusion that followed the shooting. Safety coordinator Dave Halls, who pleaded no contest to negligent use of a deadly weapon, admitted to failing to properly check the gun. Prosecutors emphasized the preventable nature of the tragedy and the need for accountability.

Following the verdict, Gutierrez-Reed's attorney requested that she remain free pending sentencing, but the judge ordered her to be held in custody. The sentencing date has yet to be set, but Gutierrez-Reed plans to appeal. Attorneys representing Hutchins' family expressed satisfaction with the verdict and a desire for all responsible parties to face consequences.

The trial shed light on the importance of gun safety on film sets and the devastating impact of negligence. The legal process will continue to unfold as justice is sought for the victims of this tragic incident.