Santa Fe, New Mexico – Hollywood actor Alec Baldwin has made an appearance at a courthouse in Santa Fe, where he is set to stand trial for the tragic shooting incident that resulted in the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of the movie “Rust.” The incident took place nearly three years ago during a rehearsal of a shooting scene, when a prop gun held by Baldwin discharged, killing Hutchins and injuring director Joel Souza.

Baldwin, 66, has maintained his innocence, claiming that he did not intentionally fire the gun and was unaware that it contained live ammunition. He is facing a charge of involuntary manslaughter in relation to the October 2021 incident, with the possibility of up to 18 months in prison if convicted.

Recently, Baldwin appeared in court for a pre-trial hearing, during which the judge ruled that Baldwin’s role as a co-producer on the movie would not be a relevant factor in the case. Jury selection is currently underway in Santa Fe, with the commencement of opening statements expected to take place on Wednesday.

The trial has garnered significant attention following the conviction of the movie’s armorer, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, for involuntary manslaughter in April. Gutierrez-Reed was sentenced to the maximum 18 months in prison for her role in the tragic incident.

As Baldwin’s trial progresses, it serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of on-set safety protocols and the importance of accountability in the film industry. The outcome of the trial will not only impact Baldwin’s future but also shed light on the need for stricter safety measures to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.

The ongoing legal proceedings underscore the complexities and challenges faced by individuals working in the entertainment industry and highlight the critical importance of adhering to strict safety guidelines on movie sets. The trial serves as a sobering reminder of the potential dangers involved in filmmaking and the responsibility that each individual holds in ensuring a safe working environment for all involved.