The verdict on Wednesday found movie armourer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed guilty of involuntary manslaughter in the fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins by actor Alec Baldwin. The jury deliberated for almost three hours before reaching the verdict, which also acquitted Gutierrez-Reed of tampering with evidence charges. She did not show emotion as the verdict was read and was taken into custody. Gutierrez-Reed plans to appeal the conviction, which could result in up to 18 months in prison and a $5,000 fine.
The trial highlighted safety standards within the movie industry, with prosecutors alleging that Gutierrez-Reed brought live ammunition onto the set of Rust, where it remained for 12 days before the fatal shooting. Baldwin, who faces involuntary manslaughter charges, was accused of mishandling weapons on set. Gutierrez-Reed’s defence argued that the problems extended beyond her control, and that an ammunition supplier was not fully investigated.
Despite the defence’s arguments, the jury concluded that Gutierrez-Reed had brought live ammunition onto the set, whether intentional or not. The trial featured testimony from numerous witnesses, including FBI experts and a camera operator who witnessed the fatal shooting. Gutierrez-Reed’s mother reacted with dismay at the verdict, as her daughter was led away.
The conviction of Gutierrez-Reed was seen as a step towards justice for Halyna Hutchins by her family’s lawyer, Gloria Allred. The case has brought attention to gun safety protocols on movie sets, with prosecutors highlighting failures in maintaining firearm safety on the set of Rust. Baldwin’s trial is scheduled for July, and he has pleaded not guilty to involuntary manslaughter charges.