Alec Baldwin's Lawyer Blames Fatal 'Rust' Shooting on Armorer

Alec Baldwin's attorney ignited the trial for the fatal shooting on the set of "Rust" by playing the harrowing 911 call, accusing the film's armorer of negligence while exonerating Baldwin of any wrongdoing.

In a gripping opening statement at Alec Baldwin's involuntary manslaughter trial, his attorney, Alex Spiro, painted a startling picture of a tragic accident caused by systemic failures on the "Rust" movie set. Spiro vehemently asserted that Baldwin bore no responsibility for the fatal shooting that claimed the life of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and wounded director Joel Souza.

Spiro laid the blame squarely on Hannah Gutierrez Reed, the armorer responsible for weapon safety on the set, arguing that she inexplicably loaded the firearm with live ammunition. He maintained that Baldwin trusted the safety apparatus and had no reason to suspect the gun posed any danger.

Alec Baldwin's Lawyer Blames Fatal 'Rust' Shooting on Armorer

"This was an unspeakable tragedy, but Alec Baldwin committed no crime," Spiro declared, emphasizing that Baldwin's role as an actor in the film did not extend to ensuring gun safety. He insisted that industry norms and union regulations do not obligate actors to inspect weapons before use.

Spiro highlighted the stark contrast between film sets and real-world gun handling, arguing that specific roles and responsibilities are clearly defined in cinematic productions. He stressed that Baldwin had every right to rely on the expertise of the armorer, who was responsible for verifying the firearm's safety.

Alec Baldwin's Lawyer Blames Fatal 'Rust' Shooting on Armorer

"He was just acting as he has done for generations, and it was the safety apparatus that failed them all," Spiro asserted, underscoring that adherence to safety protocols is paramount on movie sets. He pointed out that Baldwin's actions on set were consistent with industry practices.

Spiro presented Baldwin as a grieving and devastated individual rather than a culpable party. He described Baldwin as a father and artist deeply affected by the tragic loss of life on the set.

Alec Baldwin's Lawyer Blames Fatal 'Rust' Shooting on Armorer

However, prosecutor Erlinda Johnson vehemently countered Spiro's arguments, accusing Baldwin of egregious mishandling of the firearm. She presented evidence of Baldwin's improper handling, including pointing the gun at individuals and cocking the hammer when it was unnecessary.

Johnson maintained that Baldwin, like any individual, had an inherent obligation to ensure the safety of the gun he was handling. Contradicting Baldwin's claims of an accidental discharge, she asserted that the gun could not have fired unless Baldwin pulled the trigger.

Alec Baldwin's Lawyer Blames Fatal 'Rust' Shooting on Armorer

Spiro lamented the destruction of the firearm during FBI testing, highlighting that it prevented his defense from exploring potential modifications or malfunctions that could exonerate Baldwin. The trial is expected to delve into complex issues of gun safety, individual responsibility, and the ethical implications of handling firearms on film sets.

Baldwin faces up to 18 months in prison if convicted of involuntary manslaughter. The jury's decision will hinge on carefully weighing the evidence presented by both the prosecution and defense, determining whether Baldwin's actions rose to the level of criminal negligence.

Alec Baldwin's Lawyer Blames Fatal 'Rust' Shooting on Armorer