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Manslaughter charges against Alec Baldwin in 'Rust' shooting dismissed, criminal prosecution concluded

'We encourage a proper investigation into the facts and circumstances of this tragic accident', said Alec Baldwin's lawyer Luke Nikas

SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO: In a recent development, involuntary manslaughter charges against actor Alec Baldwin have been dropped over the fatal shooting incident that took place during the filming of 'Rust' in New Mexico. Baldwin had been charged with two counts of involuntary manslaughter after a live bullet from a prop gun he was practicing with fatally struck cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and wounded director Joel Souza in October 2021.

His lawyer, Luke Nikas, said in a statement, "We are pleased with the decision to dismiss the case against Alec Baldwin and we encourage a proper investigation into the facts and circumstances of this tragic accident," Law&Crime confirmed. The film's armorer, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, still faces two counts of involuntary manslaughter.

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The decision comes as 'Rust' resumes filming

Baldwin had previously denied pulling the trigger, and his lawyer had termed the initial decision to charge his client "a terrible miscarriage of justice." The decision comes as the movie resumes filming under new restrictions that forbid the use of working guns and ammunition. "Baldwin had no reason to believe there was a live bullet in the gun - or anywhere on the movie set," Nikas said in a statement previously.  "He relied on the professionals with whom he worked, who assured him the gun did not have a live round."

'It has become clear'

Baldwin and Reed were charged with involuntary manslaughter in the shooting death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins in January brought by First Judicial District Attorney Mary Carmack-Altwies and special prosecutor Andrea Reeb. They claimed the duo faced up to five years in prison on fire enhancement, however, the defense argued that the law didn't apply to Baldwin and Reed as it was drafted after the tragic incident. Prosecutors ultimately agreed, dropping the allegation before the enhancement could be declared unconstitutional. Baldwin entered a not-guilty plea to a charge of involuntary manslaughter on February 23. 

Reeb has to step down as a prosecutor in March after meeting the setback following Baldwin's defense team seeking her disqualification for not being a state legislator. While announcing her decision she stated, "It has become clear that the best way I can ensure justice is served in this case is to step down so that the prosecution can focus on the evidence and the facts."