Alec Baldwin and the Case of Manslaughter

Imagine having a stellar acting career that dates back to 1982 with 147 acting credits and 23 producing credits including Rust, the movie that was being made when Alec Baldwin suddenly had the worst day of his life. It’s a shame that it could all come to an end with an involuntary manslaughter conviction that holds up to 18 months in prison according to New Mexico law where the charges are being filed.

On October 21, 2021, on the set of Rust at a ranch in Santa Fe, New Mexico, Alec Baldwin was rehearsing a scene that involved him firing a pistol. When he pulled the trigger on what was supposed to be a prop, actual bullets were fired, resulting in the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, as well as injuring director, Joel Souza. Firearms in movies used to be just that, props. But more and more over the years, filmmakers have wanted more authenticity and now it appears that these “props” actually function.

Santa Fe District Attorney Mary Carmack-Altwies that she would be charging Baldwin with involuntary manslaughter, and also Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, the weapons supervisor on set. In order for the charges to stick in this case, their actions must have resulted in a death but they never intended to kill anybody, and may not have even meant to hurt them. That part is true.

However, there is another part to it. They must have been acting in a reckless manner or in any other way that is unlawful. It comes down to that criteria. Can they be found guilty of manslaughter for the death of Halyna Hutchins because they acted in a reckless manner?

Armchair lawyers can argue all day whether or not Alec and Hannah are guilty. The unfortunate fact that needs to be remembered here is that Halyna Hutchins lost her life and her family is grieving. Firearm safety should have always been taken seriously on set and now, there stands a very real reason. If you pick up a firearm, you are responsible.

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