Prosecutors say Alec Baldwin Rust settlement has ‘no effect’ on criminal probe Ents & Arts News

The Santa Fe district attorney says the settlement between Alec Baldwin, Rust producers and Harina Hutchins’ family will have “no impact” on the ongoing criminal investigation into her death — and “No one is above the law”.

A spokesperson for Mary Carmack-Altwies issued a statement following the incident Unpublished Civil Settlement Noticesaid charges could still be brought.

Hutchinsa cinematographer, dies in prop gun hero Baldwin Set at Bonanza Creek Ranch while rehearsing for the western movie Rust new mexico In October 2021, her family filed a wrongful-death lawsuit against the star and others involved in the production earlier this year.

Cinematographer Halyna Hutchins was killed while filming the western film Rust.Image: Swen Studios/Reuters
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Halyna Hutchins was shot on the set of Rust last year.Image: Swen Studios/Reuters

Lawyers for her husband Matthew Hutchins, the Hollywood movie star and other producers have now confirmed the matter has been settled – with filming to resume in 2023, with Mr Hutchins as executive producer.

In a statement shared with Sky News, First Justice District Attorney’s Office spokeswoman Heather Brewer said it would not affect the criminal investigation.

“The proposed settlement by Matthew Hutchins against the wrongful death of Rust filmmakers, including Alec Baldwin, in the death of Halyna Hutchins will not affect the ongoing investigation by District Attorney Mary Carmack-Altwies or the final decision on whether she will bring criminal charges. decided in this case,” the statement said.

“While civil lawsuits are settled privately and usually involve financial compensation, criminal cases are only about the facts.

“If facts and evidence prove criminal charges are brought under New Mexico law, then charges will be brought. No one is above the law.”

Filming on Rust will begin in January 2023, with director Joel Souza, who was injured in the incident, returning to helm the project.

“Any decision to return to finish directing the film makes sense to me only with the involvement of Matt and the Hutchins family as I try to heal myself,” he said after the settlement announcement.

Writer and director Joel Souza was accidentally shot by actor Alec Baldwin on the set of his film Rust. Cinematographer Halina Hutchins was killed in the incident. Image: Ron Adar/SOPA Images/Shutterstock
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Director Joel Souza will return to production. Image: Ron Adar/SOPA Images/Shutterstock

What do Baldwin, Rust producers, and Mr. Hutchins think about the settlement?

Baldwin is the film’s producer and its star.

In confirming the settlement, he thanked everyone who “contributed to resolving this tragic and painful situation” and said they all wanted “to do what is best for Halina’s son”.

Mr Hutchins said he had “no interest in engaging in finger pointing or accusations (to the producers or Mr Baldwin)”, adding: “All of us agree that Halina’s death was a horrific accident. I am grateful to the producers People and the entertainment community came together to pay homage to Halyna’s final work.”

A lawyer for Rust Movie Productions said: “We are delighted that both parties are working together to resolve this issue, which, with court approval, marks an important step forward in celebrating Halyna’s life and honoring her work. “

Nearly a year has passed without any charges related to the incident.

Police recover bullet fired by gunman used by Alec Baldwin

In an on-camera interview a few weeks later, Baldwin recalled the moments that led to the tragedy. He said he got the revolver and told him “it’s a cold shot” – an industry term meaning it’s either empty or full of fake bullets.

He said the gun misfired and he didn’t pull the trigger.However, a recent FBI forensic report found the weapon Cannot fire unless the trigger is pulled.

The settlement was reached after a report found the film’s production company”Knowing that gun safety procedures were not followed on set” and “displayed apparent indifference to employee safety.”

Read more: Who is Halyna Hutchins?

Rust Movie Productions was fined $136,793 (£104,810), the maximum amount allowed under New Mexico law, following a six-month investigation by the state’s environmental department.

Baldwin and Rust producers also face a case brought by script supervisor Mamie Mitchell, though a Los Angeles judge recently ruled they don’t have to face its core claims of assault and intentional emotional distress.

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