Alec Baldwin’s involuntary manslaughter trial begins with jury selection
SUMMARY
Alec Baldwin’s trial for involuntary manslaughter begins Tuesday with jury selection in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Baldwin faces up to 18 months in prison if found guilty for the October 2021 incident on the set of “Rust” where a revolver he pointed at cinematographer Halyna Hutchins discharged, killing her and injuring director Joel Souza. Baldwin claims the gun fired accidentally after he followed instructions to point it at Hutchins, unaware it contained a live round. Judge Mary Marlowe Summer ruled that Baldwin’s role as co-producer is irrelevant to the trial, which should expedite jury selection. Opening statements are expected to start Wednesday. The prosecution can show autopsy images and police footage but cannot use findings from a state workplace safety investigation blaming the assistant director.
