Alec Baldwin settled the lawsuit Reps on both sides filed by loved ones of cinematographer Halina Hutchins, who was killed on the set of his movie Rust of civil litigation said Wednesday.
Hutchins, 42, was fatally injured and director Joel Souza, then 48, was injured in an incident in New Mexico on October 21, 2021. movie.
cinematographer’s submitted by the family February lawsuit against Baldwin and the people involved in the filmaccusing them of reckless behavior and cost-cutting measures that led to the tragedy.
Baldwin’s attorney Luke Nikas said in a statement, “Through this difficult process, everyone has maintained a tangible desire to do what is best for Halina’s son. We thank everyone who contributed.”
Victim’s widower turned ‘Rust’ producer
Financial terms of the settlement were not announced Wednesday, but Hutchins’ widower was named as executive producer of “Rust,” which is set to resume filming in January.
Matthew Hutchins said in a statement: “I am not interested in engaging in blame or attribution[against the producers or Mr Baldwin].
“We all believe Halina’s death was a terrible accident. We are grateful to the producers and the entertainment community for coming together to pay tribute to Halina’s final work.”
Souza said he has agreed to resume his role as director.
“Those of us who were fortunate enough to spend time with Harina knew she was extremely talented, kind, creative and an incredible source of positive energy.
“I wish the world knew her in many different ways, as it surely did through her incredible work.”
The director said he would only return to the “Last” set with the blessing of Matthew Hutchins.
“In my own attempt at healing, the decision to return to finish directing the film only made sense if it was done with the involvement of the Matt and Hutchins families,” Souza said.
“It’s certainly bittersweet, but I’m happy that Halina and I can now finish together what we started. All my efforts on this film will honor Halina’s legacy and make her proud.” It’s an honor to see this on her behalf.”
DA: Civil action does not affect prosecution
However, the civil settlement does not prevent prosecutors from filing suit against those who may be criminally responsible for Hutchins’ death.
Earlier this month, the State Finance Commission issued a special $317,000 budget allocation In the office of First District Attorney Mary Carmack-Altwies for a possible “Rust” indictment.
Prosecutors said her office was ready to file criminal charges against up to four people, according to a letter sent to the state on Aug. 30 requesting additional funding.
Carmack-Altwies spokeswoman Heather Brewer said the civil settlement “will not affect” the DA’s “final decision on whether to file criminal charges in this case.”
“Civil cases are resolved privately and often involve financial awards, whereas criminal cases deal only with the facts,” Brewer said in a statement Wednesday.
“If the facts and evidence justify criminal charges under New Mexico law, you will be prosecuted. No one is above the law.”
A representative for the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office, the law enforcement agency investigating the Rust shooting, declined to comment.
Other Parties Still Face Civil and Criminal Penalties
Movie set armorer Hannah Gutierrez Reed was also named as a defendant in the real estate lawsuit.
Gutierrez-Reid’s attorney, Jason Bowles, said his client hopes these out-of-court civil resolutions will mark a decision against the charges, although he has not yet reached a settlement with her.
“Hannah is grateful that this settlement has benefited the Hutchins family and that the parties have been able to constructively resolve their civil lawsuits,” Bowles said in a statement.
“We also hope that the District Attorney’s Office will recognize that means of justice have been achieved in this tragic accident and will choose not to pursue criminal charges.”
Writer-director Mamie Mitchell, who witnessed the fatal shooting, will not be returning to Rust as she pursues her own civil lawsuit against the producers.
Mitchell’s attorney, Gloria Allred, said in a statement, “Mamie was standing next to Halina Hutchins when Halina was shot and killed and she was too traumatized to return to that set. I can’t.
“Mamie is committed to seeking justice in her case. She is very pleased that Halina’s son and family have reached a settlement that they believe is fair to them. She will continue to pursue justice in civil cases and is also willing to testify if criminal cases are brought.”
Actor Baldwin said he didn’t shoot anyone
Baldwin claims he ‘didn’t pull the trigger’ in deadly high-profile shooting that rocked Hollywood Weapon Concerns on Movie Sets.
“Hmm, didn’t pull the trigger. Didn’t pull the trigger.” he told ABC News last year. “No, no, no, I will never point a gun at anyone or pull the trigger. Never.”
Investigations are still ongoing from an incident that occurred almost a year ago at Bonanza Creek Ranch in Santa Fe County.