A legal case brought by actor Alec Baldwin regarding the 2021 fatal shooting of a cinematographer on the movie set of “Rust” has been dismissed by a New Mexico judge. The lawsuit, which included claims of malicious prosecution and civil rights violations, was thrown out due to a lack of substantial progress, as revealed in the judge’s recent public ruling. Baldwin’s legal team now has a 30-day window to file a motion for potential reinstatement.
Luke Nikas, Baldwin’s lead attorney, mentioned that the dismissal was not a significant event, as they have been engaged in constructive settlement discussions with the involved parties. Nikas stated that they intend to refile the case promptly if those discussions do not reach a favorable resolution.
The defendants in the lawsuit encompass special prosecutor Kari Morrissey, Santa Fe District Attorney Mary Carmack-Altwies, three investigators from the Santa Fe County sheriff’s office, and the county board of commissioners. Notably, a charge of involuntary manslaughter against Baldwin was previously dismissed during a trial due to allegations of evidence suppression by law enforcement and prosecutors.
Baldwin’s legal claim involves allegations of defamation, asserting that prosecutors and investigators unfairly targeted him and his co-producer for personal or professional motives. The tragic incident occurred when cinematographer Halyna Hutchins was fatally injured during a rehearsal on the “Rust” film set in October 2021 near Santa Fe, N.M. Baldwin, while handling a prop firearm, unintentionally discharged it, resulting in Hutchins’ death and the injury of director Joel Souza.
In a recent interview at Comic-Con International in San Diego, Baldwin expressed disbelief at the trial’s sudden conclusion and reflected on the positive turn his life has taken in the past year. However, Baldwin and other “Rust” producers are facing a separate lawsuit in New Mexico state court from Hutchins’ family members. A deposition involving Baldwin in that ongoing case was postponed in May and awaits rescheduling.