Understanding the ‘Rust’ Armorer: What You Need to Know – Hollywood Life

Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, the armorer on the set of Alec Baldwin’s movie “Rust,” has been sentenced to 18 months in prison for involuntary manslaughter in the tragic death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. Gutierrez-Reed, who comes from a family of Hollywood armorers, including her father Thell Reed, found herself at the center of a shocking film production tragedy.

Reports have surfaced that Gutierrez-Reed’s inexperience with gun safety was a concern on set, with key grip Stu Brumbaugh alleging that Nicolas Cage had to confront her for firing a gun near the cast and crew multiple times. Despite this, Gutierrez-Reed described her work on “The Old Way” as a “badass way to start off” her career as an armorer.

The fatal incident occurred on the set of “Rust” in October 2021 when Baldwin accidentally shot and killed Hutchins with a loaded prop gun during a scene. While involuntary manslaughter charges against Baldwin were dismissed and later refiled, Gutierrez-Reed faced charges in 2023. Her attorney maintained her innocence, stating that she would be found not guilty by a jury.

During her sentencing hearing in April 2024, Gutierrez-Reed was criticized by the judge for not taking full accountability for her actions. Despite expressing remorse, the judge noted that Gutierrez-Reed did not fully acknowledge the gravity of her actions. As a result, she was sentenced to 18 months in prison at a women’s correctional facility in New Mexico.

The tragic events surrounding the production of “Rust” have brought to light the importance of safety protocols on film sets and the responsibilities of crew members in ensuring a safe working environment.