Motion to Dismiss ‘Rust’ Case Denied

Alec Baldwin continues to have his motions rejected in his effort to avoid any responsibility for the death of his cinematographer in “Rust.”

Baldwin’s attorneys had filed another motion to dismiss, but once again, it was rejected by the New Mexico court.

Unless Baldwin can pull off a miracle, the actor will be tried for manslaughter later this month.

Going to Trial

Baldwin’s defense team was arguing that the gun he had been given was damaged and not functioning properly, only they were unable to prove it because it was further damaged by the FBI.

They claim this was done during forensic testing by the FBI, which prevented their team from being able to check the gun for modifications or other issues that could have helped Baldwin’s defense.

This motion being denied now clears the way for the case to begin on July 9 as scheduled.

According to reports, among those being called in the case will be Joel Souza, the director of Rust who was also wounded in the shooting, and Dave Halls, the assistant director who pleaded no contest to negligent use of a deadly weapon.

Baldwin was charged because he pointed the gun at cinematographer Halyna Hutchins when the revolver was fired, striking her and killing her.

Souza was also wounded by the same bullet.

From day one, Baldwin has insisted that he did not pull the trigger, that the gun went off on its own, which anyone who has ever handled a revolver knows is all but impossible.

I have heard of revolvers going off that were cocked and dropped, but never while in someone’s hand.

During FBI testing, the FBI put the gun through significant testing, including bashing the gun with a mallet from various angles to see if they could get it to fire, which is when the gun was damaged.

Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, the movie’s armorer, has already been convicted of involuntary manslaughter, and she was sentenced to 18 months.

Baldwin was also sued by Hutchins’ family, having settled out of court.

While filming was initially suspended, Baldwin did eventually resume shooting, and the movie is expected to be released later this year.