Rust Shooting Lawsuit Settled: Crew Members Reach Agreement Over halyna Hutchins’ Death
A resolution has been reached in the lawsuit filed by three crew members of the film
Rust related to the tragic accidental shooting that claimed the life of cinematographer
Halyna Hutchins.The settlement marks a critically important development in the ongoing legal
proceedings following the incident.
Settlement Reached in Rust Shooting Case
Last week, both parties notified the court with a joint filing, signaling an agreement to
resolve the case.The specific terms of the settlement remain confidential. The lawsuit
originated from the Oct. 21, 2021, incident where an old-fashioned revolver being handled by
Alec Baldwin discharged.
Assistant Director David Halls had declared the gun “cold,” indicating it contained no live
ammunition. Tragically, the revolver discharged toward Halyna hutchins, who died, and director
Joel Souza, who sustained injuries while Baldwin rehearsed a drawing maneuver.
Details of the lawsuit
In 2023, Ross Addiego (dolly operator), Doran Curtin (set costumer), and Reese Price (key grip)
initiated legal action against Alec Baldwin and the production companies involved in
Rust. Their lawsuit highlighted a deficient safety culture on set.
The suit alleged that producers neglected industry norms related to firearm use to cut corners
on the film’s budget. These norms encompass safety protocols designed to protect cast and crew
when firearms are involved.
Did you Know? The use of live ammunition is typically strictly prohibited on film sets, and this ban was allegedly in place at Bonanza Creek Ranch, where
Rust was filmed.
Is enough being done to ensure safety on film sets?
Key Safety Violations
The suit also addressed basic gun handling rules for actors, which include treating every firearm
as loaded and never pointing it at anything they don’t intend to shoot. Following the
shooting, Alec Baldwin faced criticism for allegedly not adhering to these guidelines.
Furthermore, a separate lawsuit claimed that Baldwin was not supposed to pull the trigger during
the scene that led to the fatal shooting. The crew members also criticized the hiring of
armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, who was convicted of involuntary manslaughter last year.
Pro Tip: Productions often hire experienced firearm specialists, but Gutierrez-Reed allegedly split her time between armorer and key props assistant, allowing the production to save money by combining two roles into one.
David Halls’ Involvement
The lawsuit also implicated David Halls, who allegedly skipped required safety protocols and
rushed critical scenes involving firearms to keep the movie on schedule. In 2023,halls pleaded
guilty to negligent use of a deadly weapon and received six months of probation.
What additional safety measures could be implemented on film sets?
Claims Made by Crew Members
The crew members’ lawsuit included claims of negligence and intentional infliction of
emotional distress. The movie,
Rust,was released on demand and in select theaters last month.
The Broader Impact on the Film Industry
the
Rust shooting has prompted a widespread re-evaluation of safety practices within the
film industry.Studios and independent productions alike are now under increased scrutiny to
ensure adherence to rigorous safety standards. Measures such as enhanced training programs,
more thorough equipment checks, and stricter protocols for handling firearms are being
implemented to prevent similar tragedies.
The incident also shed light on the financial pressures that can sometimes lead to compromised
safety. The industry is grappling with finding a balance between budgetary constraints and
maintaining a safe working surroundings for all cast and crew members.
| Name | Role | Involvement |
|---|---|---|
| Halyna Hutchins | Cinematographer | Fatally shot on set |
| Alec Baldwin | Actor/Producer | Handling the firearm that discharged |
| David Halls | Assistant Director | Declared the gun “cold”; pleaded guilty to negligent use of a deadly weapon |
| Hannah Gutierrez-Reed | Armorer | Responsible for firearm safety; convicted of involuntary manslaughter |
| Joel Souza | director | injured in the shooting |
Frequently Asked Questions About the Rust Shooting
-
What exactly is the Rust shooting settlement?
The settlement resolves a lawsuit filed by crew members concerning the accidental shooting
on the set of
Rust that resulted in the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. -
Who are the crew members involved in the Rust tragedy settlement?
The crew members involved in the tragedy settlement are Ross Addiego, Doran Curtin, and
Reese Price. -
what key safety concerns were at the forefront of the Rust case lawsuit?
The lawsuit highlighted concerns over the safety culture of the
Rust set, including the presence of live ammunition and alleged failures to adhere
to basic gun handling safety protocols. -
What role did Alec Baldwin play in the Rust movie shooting incident?
Alec Baldwin was handling the revolver that discharged during a practice scene,resulting
in the death of Halyna Hutchins and injury of director Joel Souza. -
What involvement did Hannah Gutierrez-Reed have related to the Rust crisis shooting ?
Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, the armorer on
Rust, was responsible for firearm safety and was convicted of involuntary
manslaughter last year.
What are your thoughts on the settlement? Share your comments below and let us know what you
think.
