In a pivotal verdict that reverberated through Hollywood, “Rust” armorer Hannah Gutierrez was convicted of involuntary manslaughter on Wednesday in connection with the tragic on-set shooting that claimed the life of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.
After deliberating for less than three hours, the jury delivered its decision, finding Gutierrez guilty of involuntary manslaughter while also acquitting her of tampering with evidence related to the case.
Prosecutors argued that Gutierrez’s repeated lapses in firearm safety protocols directly contributed to Hutchins’ death, emphasizing her negligence in maintaining proper safety measures. Conversely, the defense portrayed Gutierrez as a “convenient scapegoat” during their closing arguments, seeking to refute the prosecution’s claims.
Following the verdict, Gutierrez was remanded into custody by the judge. With the conviction, she faces a potential sentence of up to 18 months in prison, although a sentencing date has yet to be determined. Gutierrez’s defense attorney, Jason Bowles, expressed plans to appeal the verdict, citing concerns about the sufficiency of evidence presented during the trial.
Outside the courthouse, Hutchins’ family, represented by attorney Gloria Allred, released a statement expressing satisfaction with the jury’s decision. They emphasized their desire for accountability, urging the legal system to ensure that all parties responsible for Hutchins’ death face appropriate consequences.
Throughout the trial, prosecutors presented evidence suggesting that Gutierrez had brought six live rounds onto the set without proper detection, a critical oversight that went unaddressed for nearly two weeks before the fatal incident. The shooting occurred as actor Alec Baldwin was rehearsing a scene, resulting in Hutchins’ tragic death and injury to director Joel Souza.
The outcome of Gutierrez’s trial marks a significant milestone in the ongoing legal proceedings surrounding the “Rust” shooting, shedding light on the complexities and responsibilities inherent in film production safety protocols. As the investigation continues, stakeholders in the industry remain vigilant in their pursuit of justice and accountability for all those affected by this devastating incident.
