“An actor’s job is not to be a firearms or weapons expert,” the union said. “Firearms are provided for use on set under the guidance of a number of expert professionals directly responsible for the safe and accurate operation of that firearm.”
Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, the film’s armorer – the person responsible for supplying and maintaining the weapons – will be tried this month on charges of involuntary manslaughter and tampering with evidence.
The film’s security coordinator and assistant director Dave Halls, who handed the loaded gun to Baldwin, agreed to a plea deal with prosecutors and was sentenced to six months’ probation.
Filming of ‘Rust’ was halted due to the tragedy, but resumed last year. The cinematographer’s widower, Matthew Hutchins, who has already settled a wrongful death case with the ‘Rust’ producers, served as executive producer on the project.
Director Souza also returned, saying at the time that completing the film would be “bittersweet”, but that the cast and crew were “committed to finishing what Halina and I started.” Baldwin is free on bail.