Alec Baldwin has been cleared of charges in the fatal on-set shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins during the production of the film “Rust” in 2021, according to sources.
The shooting, which occurred on October 21, 2021, at the Bonanza Creek Ranch in New Mexico, shocked the entertainment industry and sparked a nationwide debate about safety on film sets. Baldwin, who was serving as both a producer and actor on the film, was holding a prop gun that he believed was loaded with blanks when he fired it and accidentally killed Hutchins.
In the aftermath of the shooting, the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office launched an investigation into the incident and Baldwin was questioned by authorities. The investigation reportedly focused on whether criminal charges should be filed against Baldwin or any other individuals involved in the production.
Now, sources say that Baldwin has been cleared of any criminal charges in connection with the shooting. The exact reasons for the decision are unclear, but it is believed that investigators determined the shooting was a tragic accident and not the result of criminal negligence or wrongdoing.
The news of Baldwin’s exoneration is likely to come as a relief to the actor, who has been publicly remorseful about the shooting and has called it “a one-in-a-trillion event.” In an interview with ABC News shortly after the shooting, Baldwin said he was “heartbroken” and “in shock” over what had happened.
The tragedy also led to renewed calls for safety reforms on film sets. In the wake of the shooting, several Hollywood unions and industry groups have pushed for stricter safety protocols, including the use of licensed armorers to handle firearms and better training for cast and crew.
The incident also raised questions about the use of real firearms on movie sets, with some critics calling for a ban on their use entirely. However, others have argued that prop guns are a necessary tool for filmmakers and that the focus should be on improving safety practices and protocols.
Despite the tragedy, “Rust” is still slated to be released, with producers reportedly planning to complete the film using digital effects and a stand-in for Hutchins. The film, which tells the story of a 13-year-old boy who accidentally shoots and kills a friend while hunting, has already faced numerous delays and setbacks, but producers are determined to see it through to completion.
While Baldwin has been cleared of criminal charges, the shooting is likely to continue to have a profound impact on the entertainment industry and raise important questions about safety and responsibility on film sets.
