Hannah Gutierrez Reed, the armorer for the film “Rust,” has been found guilty of involuntary manslaughter in a New Mexico trial linked to the 2021 fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.
Gutierrez Reed, tasked with firearm safety and storage on set, was acquitted of a charge of evidence tampering related to allegations of transferring cocaine after a police interview.
During the trial, Gutierrez Reed, 26, did not testify in her defense and showed no emotion upon hearing the verdict. She was immediately taken into custody.
The involuntary manslaughter charge carries a potential sentence of up to 18 months in prison and a $5,000 fine, with the sentencing date yet to be determined.
Attorneys representing Hutchins’ family expressed satisfaction with the verdict, stating their hope for accountability for all responsible parties.
Prosecutors argued Gutierrez Reed’s repeated safety lapses led to Hutchins’ death, emphasizing systemic failures rather than a single mistake.
Meanwhile, Gutierrez Reed’s defense attorney indicated plans to appeal the verdict.
The trial also raised questions about Alec Baldwin‘s role in the incident, with prosecutors alleging Gutierrez Reed’s negligence allowed live rounds onto the set.
However, Gutierrez Reed’s defense argued that she couldn’t have predicted Baldwin’s actions and attributed responsibility to management for safety failures.
The incident highlighted broader safety concerns within the film industry, leading to scrutiny of safety practices and the subsequent issuance of fines against Rust Movie Productions, LLC.
Despite arguments from the defense, the prosecution maintained Gutierrez Reed’s role as the primary decision-maker regarding gun safety on set.
Assistant film director David Halls admitted negligence in checking the firearm but took a plea deal for his involvement in the shooting.
In closing arguments, prosecutor Morrissey emphasized Gutierrez Reed’s autonomy in gun safety decisions, while Baldwin’s actions are expected to be addressed in his own trial.
Source-CNN
