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Alec Baldwin’s Involuntary Manslaughter Trial Begins with Jury Selection

Abu Quatada
Alec Baldwin’s Involuntary Manslaughter Trial Begins with Jury Selection

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — Alec Baldwin’s trial in the shooting of a cinematographer commenced Tuesday with the selection of jurors tasked with determining whether the actor is guilty of involuntary manslaughter. The high-profile case, involving a major Hollywood star, promises to be a unique experience for the chosen jurors in Santa Fe, New Mexico—a location that has seen a surge in film production but remains unfamiliar with celebrity trials of this magnitude.

Baldwin and his wife, Hilaria, arrived at the courthouse Tuesday morning, accompanied by at least one of their youngest children. The couple has several children, with their youngest set to turn two in September. The 66-year-old actor, renowned for his roles in “30 Rock” and “The Hunt for Red October,” faces up to 18 months in prison if convicted.

The charges stem from an incident during a rehearsal in October 2021 on the set of the Western film “Rust.” A revolver, which Baldwin was handling, discharged, resulting in the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and the wounding of director Joel Souza. The incident occurred at Bonanza Creek Ranch, about 18 miles from the courthouse. Baldwin has maintained that the gun fired accidentally after he followed instructions to point it towards Hutchins, who was behind the camera. He asserted that he pulled back the hammer but did not pull the trigger.

In a significant victory for Baldwin’s defense team, Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer ruled at a pretrial hearing that Baldwin’s role as a co-producer on “Rust” would not be relevant to the trial. This ruling prevented the prosecution from using Baldwin’s producer role to argue for his responsibility for safety on the set.

Special prosecutor Kari Morrissey expressed doubts about the speed of the jury selection process, given her previous clashes with Baldwin’s defense team. However, Baldwin’s attorney, Alex Spiro, confidently stated that he had never failed to pick a jury in a single day. By the afternoon, dozens of prospective jurors had been brought into the courtroom for questioning, with cameras turned off to protect their privacy. The trial is expected to last nine days, with jurors anticipated to receive the case by the end.

Prosecutors were disappointed by the judge’s exclusion of evidence regarding Baldwin’s producer responsibilities but scored other wins on Monday. They successfully argued for the exclusion of findings from a state workplace safety investigation that placed much of the blame on the film’s assistant director. The judge also ruled that graphic images from Hutchins’ autopsy and police lapel cameras during the treatment of her injuries could be shown to the jury.

The trial has drawn widespread attention due to Baldwin’s celebrity status. Baldwin, who has been a fixture in Hollywood for decades, is known for his versatile acting roles, including his portrayal of iconic characters in “Beetlejuice” and numerous other films. His net worth, estimated to be substantial, underscores his successful career. Baldwin has also been in the spotlight for his personal life, including his marriage to Hilaria Baldwin, who has stood by him throughout the legal proceedings.

The tragic incident on the set of “Rust” has not only brought Baldwin’s actions under scrutiny but also highlighted the broader issue of safety protocols on film sets. Baldwin’s defense team has argued that the actor was following instructions and was unaware that the gun contained a live round. They contend that Baldwin’s handling of the firearm was not negligent, but the prosecution aims to prove otherwise.

Among the potential witnesses are David Halls, the film’s safety coordinator, and Joel Souza, the director, who was also injured in the shooting. Both testified during the trial of Hannah Gutierrez, the film’s armorer, who was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter and sentenced to 18 months in prison. Gutierrez has appealed her conviction and may be called to testify without immunity.

The prosecution has been determined to establish Baldwin’s culpability. During Gutierrez’s trial, footage from the filming of “Rust” was shown, including a take of Baldwin firing a gun after “cut” was called. Prosecutor Kari Morrissey emphasized Baldwin’s lack of gun safety, suggesting that his conduct would eventually need to be addressed.

The trial’s outcome remains uncertain, but its implications are significant. It raises questions about responsibility and accountability on film sets, particularly when handling firearms. The proceedings also serve as a reminder of the potential consequences of lapses in safety protocols.

Baldwin’s case has captivated public attention, with many following the trial closely. The actor’s previous roles, including his young appearances in early films and his ongoing career, have kept him in the public eye. His involvement in this tragic incident has added a complex layer to his public persona.

As the trial progresses, the focus will be on the evidence presented and the jurors’ interpretation of Baldwin’s actions on that fateful day. The decision will not only impact Baldwin’s future but also set a precedent for how similar cases might be handled in the entertainment industry.

Alec Baldwin’s trial for involuntary manslaughter is a landmark case that intertwines the realms of celebrity, legal accountability, and film production safety. As the trial unfolds, it will provide insights into the responsibilities of actors and producers on set, particularly concerning the use of firearms. The verdict will be keenly watched, not just for its immediate implications for Baldwin but also for its broader impact on Hollywood and beyond.

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