Jurors declare in Alec Baldwin rust case: “Clearly an accident”

Two jurors who participated in the recently dismissed Rust v. Alec Baldwin case gave their side of the case at trial, stressing that they believe the shooting was an accident.

Speaking to the New York Times, Gabriela Picayo and Johanna Haag expressed their doubts about the charges against the actor following the tragic incident on the set of Rust in October 2021, in which camerawoman Halyna Hutchins was killed.

Baldwin’s case involved the accidental discharge of a firearm he was holding, which also injured director Joel Souza. The incident led to Baldwin facing criminal charges that were eventually dropped on July 12, 2024, after his defense attorney argued that prosecutors had withheld key evidence.

Haag, who was identified as Juror No. 7 and works in the advertising and marketing industry, looked back on her deliberations and said the case against Baldwin became weaker as time went on. She mentioned that emotional police footage showing Baldwin visibly shocked and saddened after the shooting convinced her it was indeed an accident and not an act of negligence or intent.

“I thought, ‘What is going on here? What is happening?'” Haag recalls feeling sorry for Baldwin after learning the case was dismissed because of undisclosed evidence.

Picayo, Juror No. 9 and a researcher, echoed similar sentiments, pointing out that Baldwin, as an actor, could not be expected to have detailed knowledge of firearms safety on set. She stressed that Baldwin likely relied on the expertise of professionals such as gunsmith Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, who was convicted of manslaughter in connection with the incident.

Jurors’ testimony underscored their belief that the tragedy was the result of unforeseen circumstances rather than criminal negligence on Baldwin’s part. Although they were unable to reach a verdict due to the dismissal of the case, both jurors indicated a change of heart during the course of the trial, leaning toward the view that prosecuting Baldwin may have been unnecessary.

Baldwin, who has expressed his gratitude for the support during this difficult time, addressed the firing in a social media post and thanked his supporters for their kindness towards his family.

The outcome of the case has left many questions unanswered regarding responsibility on film sets and the impact on firearms safety measures in the entertainment industry.