**Justice Served: Judge Approves Settlement in Wrongful Death Lawsuit of “Rust” Cinematographer Halyna Hutchins**
A judge has given the green light for a settlement in the wrongful death lawsuit of Halyna Hutchins, the cinematographer tragically killed on the set of the film “Rust.” As we seek answers and accountability, this important development brings closure to the bereaved family and all individuals involved.
In the shocking and tragic incident that occurred in October 2021, Halyna Hutchins, a loving wife and mother, lost her life on the set of “Rust” at the young age of 42. Alec Baldwin, the film’s lead actor and producer, mistakenly fired a live round instead of a dummy round from a Colt .45 revolver while practicing a cross-draw maneuver, striking Hutchins in the stomach. She was airlifted to a hospital but ultimately succumbed to her injuries.
Four months later, in February 2022, Hutchins’ husband, Matthew Hutchins, filed a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of himself and their 10-year-old son, Andros. The lawsuit accused Baldwin and others, including the film’s armorer, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, of “reckless behavior and cost-cutting” which led to the tragic loss of life.
Fast forward to October 2022, one year since the heartbreaking event, the parties named in the lawsuit reached a confidential agreement. A judge gave his judicial blessing to this settlement, ensuring young Andros would receive annuity payments from the lawsuit when he turns 18 and 22 years old. Other details remain undisclosed.
Though Alec Baldwin and Hannah Gutierrez-Reed had faced involuntary manslaughter charges, these were dropped earlier this year as special prosecutors in New Mexico called for further investigation. An FBI report discredited Baldwin’s claim that the gun could not have fired on its own, but other forensic investigations indicated possible faults in the antique weapon. While charges have not been ruled out for the future, the film’s first assistant director, David Halls, has agreed to plead no contest to negligent use of a deadly weapon.
The film’s director, Joel Souza, was also injured in the incident, with the same bullet hitting him in the shoulder after passing through Hutchins’ stomach. He has since recovered from his injuries. The production of “Rust” was suspended at the time but eventually resumed and concluded by May of this year. As part of the settlement, Matthew Hutchins has been named an executive producer of the film.
**A Step Towards Closure: The Approval of the Halyna Hutchins Lawsuit Settlement Offers Solace to the Family**
In the jarring and deeply sorrowful case of Halyna Hutchins and the “Rust” tragedy, the recent approval of the settlement in the wrongful death lawsuit is a significant step in grieving and healing for the family and all parties involved. While true closure may be unattainable, this resolution offers much-needed comfort and consolation as life continues in the wake of tragedy.
