On October 23, 2021, Halyna Hutchins, a cinematographer, was fatally shot on the set of the movie "Rust" in Albuquerque, New Mexico, allegedly by Alec Baldwin. Baldwin and the film's armorer, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, were later charged with two counts of manslaughter, one of which carried a potential five-year prison sentence. However, this week it was revealed that prosecutors had incorrectly charged Baldwin with the extra penalty. Baldwin’s legal team withdrew their motion to reduce the charges on Monday, after it was revealed that the prosecutor had emailed admitting that the motion was correct and agreeing to amend the criminal information. Baldwin still faces involuntary manslaughter charges, with a possible 18-month prison sentence.
The incident has been the subject of much legal debate, but also of a vigil in honour of Hutchins. Producers recently announced that "Rust" will resume filming this spring, and a documentary about Hutchins' life and work will also begin production. Baldwin and Gutierrez-Reed will make their first court appearances on Friday morning in a remote hearing.
The tragic death of Halyna Hutchins has sparked much controversy and debate, with many people having strong opinions on the matter. However, the legal process is now moving forward, and it will be interesting to see the outcome of the court hearing on Friday.