Damage to reputation

Baldwin files lawsuit against “Rust” investigators

Alec Baldwin was charged with involuntary manslaughter in the death of "Rust" camerawoman Halyna Hutchins, but the case was dropped. Now the actor is suing the judicial officials in New Mexico.

(Bild: APA/Getty Images via AFP/GETTY IMAGES/POOL)

Movie star Alec Baldwin has filed a lawsuit against judicial officials in the US state of New Mexico for malicious prosecution and defamation of character. 

Baldwin accuses the public prosecutor's office of being blinded by the desire to obtain a conviction for the actor at any cost, CNN reported on Friday, citing the statement of claim. 

Baldwin accuses the prosecutors of constantly trying to make the actor a scapegoat for the actions and failings of others, it added.

Tragedy on film set
During the filming of the movie "Rust" in October 2021, 42-year-old camerawoman Halyna Hutchins was fatally injured in the US state of New Mexico when a shot was fired from a prop gun operated by Baldwin.

The fatal shot occurred during the filming of the western "Rust". It is still not clear how the live ammunition got into the gun.

(Bild: Santa Fe County Sheriff)

Director Joel Souza was hit in the shoulder by the projectile and injured in the incident. Investigations later revealed that a real bullet had been lodged in the Colt.

The actor was charged with involuntary manslaughter after the fatal shooting. In July 2024, the judge discontinued the trial, which had already begun. The defense lawyers had accused the public prosecutor's office of withholding evidence and thus of gross misconduct.

Conviction of master-at-arms
Weapons master Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, who was responsible for weapons safety on the set, was sentenced to 18 months in prison for involuntary manslaughter.

The question of how the live ammunition got onto the set has still not been answered. Gutierrez-Reed and Baldwin have repeatedly denied responsibility for the incident.