Alec Baldwin to play unruly rule-breaker in trial for shooting incident with cinematographer

During the first day of Alec Baldwin’s trial in New Mexico for the shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, prosecutors painted Baldwin as someone who disregards safety rules. They claim that Baldwin played with a revolver on the set of the film “Rust,” leading to real danger and Hutchins’ death. Special prosecutor Erlinda Ocampo Johnson emphasized that Baldwin had requested the biggest gun and was seen mishandling it during a training session, even pointing it at people and cocking the hammer when not supposed to.

The tragic incident, which occurred almost three years ago, resulted in the felony involuntary manslaughter charge against Baldwin. His lawyer, Alex Spiro, argued that Baldwin was simply doing what actors do on set and that pulling the trigger as part of his role was permissible. Spiro shifted the responsibility to the film’s armorer and assistant director, who assured Baldwin the gun was safe.

Witnesses, including a crime scene technician and the first law enforcement officer at the scene, testified during the trial’s opening days. The courtroom saw lapel camera footage showing the chaotic aftermath of the shooting. Despite being instructed not to, Baldwin engaged with potential witnesses following the incident, as captured in the footage.

Aside from the legal proceedings, emotional moments were witnessed in the courtroom, with Baldwin’s family members present, including his wife Hilaria, brother Stephen, and sister Elizabeth Keuchler. The trial is ongoing, with more testimonies expected as the case unfolds.