Home / Crime and Justice / Baldwin Faces Civil Trial Over 'Rust' Gun Negligence
Baldwin Faces Civil Trial Over 'Rust' Gun Negligence
17 Apr
Summary
- Alec Baldwin will face a civil trial starting October 12.
- A judge allowed a negligence lawsuit from a set worker to proceed.
- The judge rejected arguments that Baldwin and producers lacked responsibility.
A judge has scheduled Alec Baldwin for a civil trial in October, regarding the negligent discharge of a firearm on the set of "Rust." This civil proceeding moves forward despite the dismissal of criminal manslaughter charges against Baldwin in July 2024 due to prosecutorial evidence withholding.
The lawsuit stems from the October 2021 incident in Santa Fe, New Mexico, which resulted in the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. A gaffer, Serge Svetnoy, alleges emotional distress from negligence by Baldwin and the production team.
Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Maurice Leiter permitted the case to proceed, rejecting defense claims that Rust Movie Productions and Baldwin were not liable for set safety. The judge noted that a jury could find Baldwin's actions reckless, especially concerning pointing a gun with a finger on the trigger.
While claims for assault were dismissed due to lack of intent to harm, the judge allowed claims for punitive damages, negligence, and intentional infliction of emotional distress to proceed. Rust Movie Productions' argument for workers' compensation was also rejected as the company reportedly had no employees.
The trial was initially scheduled for May 26 but was postponed at the parties' request for further discovery and settlement discussions. Judge Leiter, concerned about the case's length, has now set the trial for October 12, expressing a desire for resolution.
