Sixteen jurors were selected on Tuesday for Alec Baldwin’s involuntary manslaughter trial in New Mexico. The trial will begin with opening statements scheduled for Wednesday.
A total of five men and eleven women were chosen by Santa Fe County special prosecutors and Baldwin’s defense team. The court will designate twelve as jurors and four as alternates only after they have heard the case.
The jury will have to determine whether Baldwin committed involuntary manslaughter when a revolver went off during a rehearsal in October 2021, resulting in the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and injuring director Joel Souza on the set of the film “Rust” at Bonanza Creek Ranch.
Media personnel were not permitted in the courtroom during jury selection. Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer instructed the jury to avoid news about the case and report back on Wednesday.
If found guilty, Baldwin, aged 66, could face up to 18 months in prison.
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The jury selection process started slowly with technical difficulties causing a two-hour delay, but the panel was ultimately chosen in a single day.
During questioning, many potential jurors indicated familiarity with the case. Baldwin, accompanied by his legal team, was present in the courtroom along with his wife and brother.
Baldwin’s lawyer, Alex Spiro, emphasized the seriousness of the situation and urged jurors to disclose any biases they may have.
Several potential jurors expressed their views on gun safety and their ability to be fair and impartial throughout the trial.
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The trial of a major Hollywood figure like Baldwin in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a rare occurrence, reflecting the state’s growing involvement in the film industry.
Baldwin maintains that the shooting was accidental, claiming he believed the gun was unloaded when it discharged.
The tragic incident took the life of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, a promising talent in the field of film photography.
