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The tragic death of Halyna Hutchins on the set of the Western film "Rust" in 2021 shook-up the entertainment industry. On Wednesday the trial of Hannah Gutierrez-Reed began. The onset armorer faces charges of involuntary manslaughter and evidence tampering.

On Wednesday jury selection was underway. 

Prosecutors in New Mexico are pushing for accountability, alleging that Gutierrez-Reed's negligence played a pivotal role in the fatal shooting.

The incident occurred outside Santa Fe during a rehearsal. Actor Alec Baldwin’s discharge of a firearm resulted in the death of cinematographer Hutchins. Director Joel Souza was also injured.

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Gutierrez-Reed

 Gutierrez-Reed, the stepdaughter of renowned sharpshooter Thell Reed, was responsible for firearm safety on the set.

She was 25 at the time of the shooting and this was the 2nd time she had served as armorer on a movie set.

Prosecutors have vowed to present compelling evidence linking the woman’s actions to the tragic outcome. They claim that Gutierrez-Reed loaded live ammunition into the firearm used by Baldwin, despite strict protocols prohibiting such practices on set.

The prosecution contends that Gutierrez-Reed failed to exercise due diligence, missing multiple opportunities to ensure the safety of the cast and crew.

Gutierrez-Reed maintains her innocence, pleading not guilty to the charges leveled against her. Her defense argues that she is being unfairly scapegoated, pointing to broader safety failures and deficiencies within the production of "Rust." 

It is alleged that live rounds were introduced to the set by an external supplier, absolving Gutierrez-Reed of direct responsibility.

The trial promises to be a complex legal affair, with more than 40 witnesses slated to testify.

Not Guilty plea

Central to the prosecution's case is the assertion that Gutierrez-Reed's actions directly contributed to Hutchins' death.

They highlight her alleged mishandling of the firearm and subsequent attempts to conceal evidence.

The evidence they say she tampered with is narcotics allegedly found on the set. Her attorneys claim that the bag was thrown away without testing the contents.

In addition to the charges related to the "Rust" incident, Gutierrez-Reed faces separate legal troubles, including accusations of violating state gun laws in a bar. 

Her defense contends that these charges are part of a broader effort to coerce a false confession regarding her handling of live ammunition on set.

Alec Baldwin also Charged

The trial also shines a spotlight on broader industry safety standards and protocols.

The tragic events on the set of "Rust" prompted a reevaluation of safety measures within the film industry, with a particular emphasis on firearm handling and oversight. 

The responsibility of production management is also an issue.

 Alec Baldwin, the lead actor in "Rust" and a co-producer, faces his own legal challenges. Indicted on an involuntary manslaughter charge, Baldwin's actions on set are under intense scrutiny.

 Legal experts suggest that the outcome of Gutierrez-Reed's trial could have ramifications for Baldwin's case, potentially broadening the scope of the investigation.