Alec Baldwin to face involuntary manslaughter charge in fatal 'Rust' shooting

Actor Alec Baldwin will face an involuntary manslaughter charge in the fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of the western film "Rust," a judge has ruled.

Baldwin's lawyers had sought to have the charge dismissed, arguing that the gun involved could not be tested because it was damaged by the FBI after the 2021 incident in New Mexico.

However, the judge rejected their plea, stating that prosecutors must call witnesses to explain to jurors how the gun was damaged and its relevance to the case.

Rust armorer Hannah Gutierrez, who mistakenly loaded a live round into the gun, is currently serving 18 months for involuntary manslaughter. 

The Colt .45 used in the shooting underwent further forensic testing last summer by special prosecutors Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis. 

Experts Lucien and Michael Haag reconstructed the gun after it broke during FBI testing, concluding that it could only have been fired by pulling the trigger.

Baldwin, 66, who stars in "Rust" and also served as the film's producer, has consistently stated that he is not responsible for Hutchins' death. 

He has maintained that he was told the gun did not contain any live rounds and that there was not supposed to be any live ammunition on set. 

Despite having an initial charge against him dropped, Baldwin is scheduled to go to trial next month.

The case continues to draw significant attention as it highlights ongoing concerns about safety protocols on film sets and the responsibilities of actors and crew members.