In the midst of the high-profile trial surrounding the tragic shooting incident on the set of the film “Rust,” the supplier of guns, blanks, and dummy ammunition, Seth Kenney, has vehemently denied accusations that live rounds originated from his inventory. The trial, now entering its eighth day, has captured widespread attention as authorities seek to unravel the events leading to the untimely death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.
Kenney, the proprietor of PDQ Arm and Prop, took the stand to assert his innocence, emphasizing the stringent measures he undertook to ensure the safety of the ammunition supplied to the set. “I have never sent out any dummy round that doesn’t rattle,” Kenney affirmed, underscoring his unwavering commitment to adhering to safety protocols.
At the heart of the legal dispute lies the question of where the live rounds originated. Prosecutors have pointed fingers at Hannah Gutierrez Reed, the film’s armorer, alleging that she brought live rounds onto the set. However, the defense contends that Kenney bears no responsibility, suggesting instead that Gutierrez Reed obtained the live ammunition elsewhere.
During intense cross-examination, defense attorney Jason Bowles raised doubts about Kenney’s handling of live ammunition from a previous production. Kenney admitted to retaining “reloaded” live rounds from the “Yellowstone” spinoff “1883,” stored separately in a marked bin at his business premises in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
The defense’s strategy also calls attention to Kenney’s interactions with law enforcement during the investigation. Bowles highlighted Kenney’s frequent contact with lead Sheriff’s investigator, Cpl. Alexandra Hancock, insinuating a cooperative effort to divert attention away from Kenney.
In parallel, testimony from Rebecca Smith, the key craft services person on the set, introduced further complexities. Smith recounted an incident where Gutierrez Reed handed her a plastic baggie containing what she believed to be cocaine, leading to a charge of evidence tampering against Gutierrez Reed.
As the trial unfolds, both prosecution and defense continue to present their cases, each witness adding layers to the intricate narrative surrounding the events preceding the tragedy. The courtroom drama underscores the gravity of the situation and the urgent quest for justice in the aftermath of the “Rust” shooting.
With the legal proceedings underway, industry insiders and the public await the trial’s outcome, hoping for clarity and accountability amidst the aftermath of this devastating incident.