Did Baldwin use the prop gun inappropriately?

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Baldwin Used Prop Gun Inappropriately on 'Rust' Set, Court Hears

Evidence presented at the trial of Rust armorer Hannah Gutierrez suggests actor Alec Baldwin handled the prop gun inappropriately on the film set where cinematographer Halyna Hutchins was fatally shot. Footage shown in court depicted Baldwin gesturing with a pistol loaded with blanks, using it as a "pointing stick" and firing it at close range to camera operators. Baldwin, who was also a producer on the film, was observed urging Gutierrez to quickly reload his weapons, even shouting "One more! One more! One more! Right away! Let’s reload!" after a director called for a cut.
Baldwin Gestured with Weapon as a "Pointing Stick"

During a rehearsal scene, Baldwin was seen lying on the ground and explaining to crew members how he would rise and fire, utilizing the firearm to gesture. A firearms expert, Bryan Carpenter, testified that this action constituted using the weapon as a "pointing stick," which is inappropriate from a firearms safety perspective. Carpenter elaborated that such behaviour, especially when performers are seen wandering between takes with firearms and pointing them at others, demonstrates very poor "muzzle discipline."
Armorer Should Not Have Been Rushed

Carpenter stated that Gutierrez, as the film's armorer, should not have allowed such behaviour and should have removed weapons from performers between takes. He specifically noted that Gutierrez should not have allowed herself to be hurried by Baldwin. The expert emphasized that rushing with firearms or instructing someone else to rush with firearms is neither normal nor accepted practice, and that such pressure can lead to safety protocols being neglected.
Safety Concerns Highlighted by Expert Testimony

The court heard that behind-the-scenes footage revealed a generally lax attitude towards gun safety on the Rust set. Carpenter's testimony highlighted that when an armorer is rushed to the extent described, "safety starts to fall by the wayside." While acknowledging that it could be challenging for a young armorer like Gutierrez to correct a prominent actor like Baldwin, Carpenter maintained that if one does not feel capable of managing such situations, they should not accept the armorer position. Baldwin's own trial for involuntary manslaughter is anticipated in July.

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Did Baldwin use the prop gun inappropriately?

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