Alec Baldwin Settles A Wrongful Death Lawsuit With "Rust" Cinematographer Halyna Hutchins' Family
In October 2021, tragedy hit the set of "Rust," a Western film produced by Alec Baldwin, who also starred in the film. Baldwin fired a prop gun at Halyna Hutchins, the director of photography, and she died. He has settled a wrongful death lawsuit with her family.
On the set of Rust in New Mexico in October 2021, Alec Baldwin was holding a prop gun and pointing it at Halyna Hutchins, 42. He fired the gun, killing her and injuring director Joel Souza, 48. Hutchins was flown by helicopter to the University of New Mexico Hospital, where she was pronounced dead. Hutchins' family subsequently sued Baldwin for wrongful death, but he claimed that the only reason they are suing him is because he has "deep pockets."
Alec Baldwin Settles a Wrongful Death Lawsuit with Rust Cinematographer Halyna Hutchins' Family
The Hutchins family filed a lawsuit against Baldwin, 64, in February 2022. They released reenactment footage that showed the moment when Baldwin pulled the trigger. Halyna's husband, Matthew Hutchins, announced on Wednesday that his family has reached an undisclosed settlement with Baldwin in the wrongful death lawsuit.
“We have reached a settlement, subject to court approval, for our wrongful death case against the producers of ‘Rust,’ including Alec Baldwin and Rust Movie Productions, LLC. As part of that settlement, our case will be dismissed,” Matthew said in a statement. “I have no interest in engaging in recriminations or attribution of blame (to the producers or Mr. Baldwin). All of us believe Halyna’s death was a terrible accident. I am grateful that the producers and the entertainment community have come together to pay tribute to Halyna’s final work.”
It was also announced that production on Rust will resume in January 2023 with the "original principal players." Souza said he is "pleased" that they will be able to complete what he started with Halyna. "My every effort on this film will be devoted to honoring Halyna’s legacy and making her proud. It is a privilege to see this through on her behalf," he said.
Baldwin's attorney Luke Nikas also gave a statement, saying, "Throughout this difficult process, everyone has maintained the specific desire to do what is best for Halyna’s son. We are grateful to everyone who contributed to the resolution of this tragic and painful situation.”
There are at least four other lawsuits brought by crew members that have yet to be concluded.