Alec Baldwin Calls for Upholding Dismissal of Involuntary Manslaughter Case in ‘Rust’ Shooting

Alec Baldwin has formally requested that a New Mexico judge uphold the dismissal of the involuntary manslaughter case stemming from the tragic shooting incident on the set of the film ‘Rust.’ The motion comes after Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer dismissed the case with prejudice, meaning it cannot be refiled.

Dismissal of Charges

The judge’s ruling was largely influenced by the prosecution’s failure to disclose critical evidence: live rounds of ammunition that were submitted to authorities by Troy Teske, a significant figure connected to the case. This evidence, which was not included in the official case file nor shared with Baldwin’s defense team, played a critical role in the decision to dismiss the charges.

Evidence Controversy

Troy Teske, a friend of Thell Reed, who is the stepfather of Hannah Gutierrez-Reed (the armorer convicted of involuntary manslaughter related to the incident), turned over the ammunition to the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office in March. Baldwin’s defense argued that this evidence was essential for a fair trial, as its late discovery undermined the integrity of the legal proceedings.

Prosecutorial Actions and Rulings

Special Prosecutor Kari Morrissey testified about her rationale for not categorizing the live rounds as relevant evidence. However, the judge asserted that the prosecution’s oversight hampered the fairness of the trial, prompting her to dismiss the charges against Baldwin.

Reactions and Implications

Upon the judge’s announcement, Baldwin was visibly emotional, breaking down in tears and embracing his wife, Hilaria. Meanwhile, prosecution officials expressed their disappointment with the ruling but acknowledged the court’s authority in the matter.

Legal Background and Future Developments

The original charges against Baldwin included involuntary manslaughter and a firearm enhancement charge, the latter of which has since been dropped. Baldwin was re-indicted in January 2024 after the initial charges were dismissed in April 2023 due to newly uncovered facts in the case. Following the dismissal, the state has moved to have the judge reconsider her ruling. Additionally, Special Prosecutor Morrissey has requested that Baldwin’s defense disclose when and how they became aware of the live ammunition evidence.

The case continues to evolve, with Baldwin’s legal team prepared to defend the dismissal, while prosecutors remain intent on pursuing their case amid the complexities surrounding evidence disclosure.