Judge dismisses Alec Baldwin’s involuntary manslaughter case citing hidden evidence

The trial of actor Alec Baldwin took a surprising turn as the judge dismissed the involuntary manslaughter case against him on Friday, citing the prosecution’s failure to disclose crucial evidence related to the fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of “Rust” in 2021. The dismissal, with prejudice, means the case cannot be filed again, leaving Baldwin emotional and relieved as he embraced his wife in the courtroom.

Throughout the trial, Baldwin maintained his innocence, claiming he was unaware that the prop revolver he was holding during a rehearsal scene contained a live round that accidentally discharged, resulting in Hutchins’ death and injuries to director Joel Souza. His lawyers argued that the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office withheld evidence of live ammunition recovered from the scene, a revelation that played a significant role in the judge’s decision to dismiss the case.

Special prosecutor Kari Morrissey expressed disappointment with the ruling but emphasized that her team had done everything possible to seek justice for Hutchins and her family. The trial was fraught with legal maneuvers, including a previous dismissal of charges against Baldwin in April 2023, only to be re-indicted in January on involuntary manslaughter.

The dismissal of Baldwin’s case has also raised questions about the ongoing legal proceedings involving Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, the armorer on the set of “Rust” who was convicted of involuntary manslaughter in Hutchins’ death. Her attorney, Jason Bowles, announced plans to seek her release, citing a pattern of government misconduct in both cases.

The abrupt end to Baldwin’s trial has left the entertainment industry and the public stunned, as the actor, known for his iconic roles on television and in movies, can finally put this chapter behind him.