Rust armourer who handed gun to Alec Baldwin found guilty over fatal shooting
During the trial for an armourer's manslaughter, the 'Rust' firearms supplier claimed that he never supplied actual bullets for the weapons.
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A group of people chosen to decide on the guilt or innocence of Hannah Gutierrez-Reed has concluded that she is responsible for the unforeseen death of Halyna Hutchins, which occurred due to a shooting incident in 2021. In legal terms, she has been found guilty of involuntary manslaughter.
The person responsible for providing Alec Baldwin with a weapon while filming Rust did not testify in court throughout the nearly two-week-long trial.
On Wednesday, after 2.5 hours of deliberation, the jury announced the verdict. It was decided that she was innocent of the charge of tampering with evidence.
Gutierrez-Reed remained unresponsive as the outcomes were announced, however when the judge commanded to imprison her, she seemed stunned.
The courtroom in Santa Fe was filled with friends and backers who were clearly emotional. Although the exact day isn't yet known, she's due to be sentenced in April. It's possible she may face imprisonment for as long as a year and a half.
Alec Baldwin, who is an actor and a producer, is set to stand trial on 9 July due to accusations of involuntary manslaughter stemming from the shooting incident.
The defense team claimed that she was wrongly blamed for issues that were out of her power, such as Mr. Baldwin's management of the weapons.
Final Defence Witness Testifies In Court
P.J. Pesce is the final individual called upon to testify in favor of the defense.
During the trial, Mr. Pesce, a writer and director, is sharing information about his experience with creating movies, particularly films which featured guns being utilized on the set.
On March 6, 2024 at 5:10 PM, Andrea Cavallier posted a blog.
Future Of ‘Rust’ Trial: What’s Ahead
The judge conversed with the court about the upcoming steps in today's hearing.
Andrea Cavallier posted an update on March 6, 2024 at 5:14 PM.
Pesce: No Film Had Armorer Split Duties
On Wednesday, Pesce informed the court that he has never been involved in a film production where one person was responsible for both being an armorer and a prop master.
He suggested that holding safety meetings on a daily basis is not just a good idea but highly suggested to ensure a safe environment is upheld.
He also stated that it is important to consistently monitor the location and use of weapons.
Reporting Unsafe Sets To Hotline Risks Career, Warns Pesce
According to Pesce, there exists a helpline for crew members to report issues with a set if they think it is unsafe. However, this is a course of action that is frequently neglected.
"He mentioned that if you report something, you might endanger your profession, which is something nobody desires," he stated.
Andrea Cavallier posted on March 6, 2024 at 5:22 PM.
During the trial, the prosecution is questioning Pesce. He explains that it is possible for anyone to stop the filming on the set, including Hannah Gutierrez-Reed.
It was stated that Gutierrez-Reed was not present in the church during the shooting. She was fulfilling other responsibilities as an armorer.
After withdrawing the defence, Pesce commented that during filming, if a firearm is present, the armorer must be present as well. Following his statement, he was granted dismissal and the defence concluded.
Andrea Cavallier posted on March 6th, 2024 at 5:25 pm.
Hannah Gutierrez-Reed's Trial Defence Rests
The defense has finished presenting their case in the trial of Hannah Gutierrez-Reed after calling in their final witness this morning.
Currently, the judge is providing the jury with guidance on how to proceed with the case.
Final statements will be presented by each party before the jury is dismissed to consider their verdicts – this could happen as soon as later today.
"Closing Arguments Starting For State"
Kari Morrisey provided the concluding remarks for the state.
In front of the court, she presents a picture portraying Halyna Hutchins.
"We will conclude just as we commenced, in our quest for empowerment of Halyna Hutchins," she states.
On March 6, 2024 at 5:43 pm, Andrea Cavallier posted a blog entry.
'Silent Woman: She's Heard And Seen'
According to Morrisey, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed did not ensure the adequate security measures were in place on the set.
In the blog, pictures are displayed featuring a stunt performer aiming his gun at various individuals on the set, including a youngster and a recording device. Additionally, Gutierrez-Reed is seen in one of the photographs holding a weapon that is directed towards her own visage.
Morrisey commented on the presence of the female on the film set, stating that although they can perceive her, she remains silent.
Andrea Cavallier posted this on March 6th, 2024 at 5:49 pm.
Not My Fault If Stuntmen Get Hurt
Morrissey presented a written record of an interview conducted by Gutierrez-Reed.
I cannot be held accountable for every foolish and irresponsible individual who obtains a firearm and fails to comprehend that it is loaded and potentially dangerous.
Morrissey explains to the court that fulfilling the described job duties is precisely within her scope of work.
Photos Aid Jury In Identifying Live Rounds
Morrissey exhibits a picture portraying Hannah Gutierrez-Reed clutching a container of ammunition.
"She stated that what you are currently viewing are real bullets."
During the trial, she informed the jurors that if they come across pictures showcasing ammunition with a silver primer, it should be regarded as proof of a live round.
The silver-coloured mannequins failed to show up on the filming location yet, and it would take two more days for them to arrive.
On March 6th, 2024 at 6:02 PM, Andrea Cavallier posted a blog entry.