Action Taken in ‘Rust’ Set Shooting: Former Armorer Set to Be Sentenced
Hannah Gutierrez Convicted of Involuntary Manslaughter
Hannah Gutierrez, the armorer responsible for loading the gun that tragically took the life of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of the movie “Rust,” is set to be sentenced after being found guilty of involuntary manslaughter. The case has brought to light serious safety violations on the film set, shocking the film industry and prompting calls for stricter safety protocols.
Violation of Industry Standards and Basic Safety Rules
Gutierrez, in her 10-day trial, was found to be in clear violation of standard movie industry practices. The trial revealed her ultimate responsibility for the presence of live rounds on the set and her repeated failure to follow basic safety rules. Her negligent actions included leaving guns unattended and allowing actors, including Alec Baldwin, to handle weapons in an unsafe manner.
Tragic Incident on the ‘Rust’ Set
The fatal incident occurred during the filming of a scene in a wooden church on the set in New Mexico. Gutierrez loaded live rounds in the Colt .45 revolver that Alec Baldwin was holding for the scene. Tragically, a bullet fired from the revolver struck Hutchins, who was standing near the camera, and also wounded director Joel Souza. Despite immediate medical attention, Hutchins succumbed to her injuries that day.
Awaiting Baldwin’s Involuntary Manslaughter Trial
Alec Baldwin, also a producer on “Rust,” is facing his own involuntary manslaughter trial in July. Baldwin has maintained his denial of the charge. If convicted, he could also face a possible prison sentence of up to 18 months. The incident has brought significant attention to the potential dangers of on-set firearm use and ignited debates about the need for stricter regulations and potential banning of weapons on movie sets.
Others Held Accountable
Dave Halls, the film’s safety coordinator and assistant director, who handed the loaded gun to Baldwin, reached a plea deal with prosecutors last year. Halls was sentenced to six months’ probation. The safety coordinator’s role and the film’s overall adherence to safety measures have faced scrutiny and criticism.
Implications for the Film Industry
The tragedy on the set of “Rust” has sent shock waves throughout Hollywood and beyond. Calls for immediate reform in safety protocols and even complete prohibition of firearms on movie sets have emerged. While the industry claims existing rules are sufficient, the need for strict compliance and oversight has become the central focus for preventing future incidents.
A Film Tainted by Tragedy
The filming of “Rust” was temporarily halted following the devastating incident, but the movie was eventually completed in Montana. The cinematographer’s widower, Matthew Hutchins, who was also an executive producer on the film, has reached a settlement in a wrongful death lawsuit with the movie’s producers. However, no release date for “Rust” has been announced yet, as the movie remains shadowed by the heartbreaking loss and the ongoing legal proceedings.
source: Highly Respected News Website
