Alec Baldwin Shooting Investigation: Armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed Denied Negligence During Police Interview
The head armorer for Alec Baldwin’s film Rust denied she didn’t follow safety procedures when grilled by police as they investigate Halyna Hutchins’ death.
Law enforcement sources say 24-year-old Hannah Gutierrez-Reed is cooperating with the Santa Fe Sheriff’s Department after they arrived at the Santa Fe, New Mexico set.
According to a search warrant, Gutierrez-Reed told authorities she had checked the pistol used by Baldwin before putting it on the prop table.
'Rust' Director Joel Souza Wipes Tears From Eyes In First Sighting Since Being Shot By Alec Baldwin
She denied ever allowing live rounds on the set. The investigators claim a “live round” did indeed discharge from the weapon despite Gutierrez-Reed’s assurances.
During questioning, she also told officers the gun in question had been locked up in a safe prior to the scene. Gutierrez-Reed said only a few people had access to the safe.
The warrant says she felt the gun was ready for use. The assistant director David Halls told a different story. Halls is the person who took the gun off the prop table and handed it to Baldwin.
He admitted not fully checking all the rounds as Gutierrez-Reed passed it to him.
- 'Rust' Armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed Blames Film Producers, Including Alec Baldwin, For On-Set Shooting That Killed Halyna Hutchins
- Alec Baldwin's Gun Handler Once Handed Non-Inspected Firearm To 11-Year-Old Actress, Deletes Social Media Following The Fatal Accident
- 'Rust' Armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed Facing Eviction After Landlord Demands She Vacate Rental After Alec Baldwin Shooting
Earlier today, the Santa Fe Sheriff's Department held a press conference to provide an update on their investigation. They revealed they are still in the process of interviewing witnesses. Officers plan to conduct follow-up interviews with Gutierrez-Reed, Halls, and Baldwin.
The District Attorney said she has not ruled out bringing charges against Baldwin or any other crew member involved.
Criminal charges are not expected to be decided on for at least a couple more weeks.
Last week, Baldwin was on set of the western Rust when he was practicing a scene with a prop gun. He was told the weapon was "cold" but when he pulled the trigger a "live round" discharged. Hutchins was shot and killed while director Joel Souza was injured and rushed to the hospital.
As RadarOnline.com previously reported, Baldwin fled New Mexico and is currently hiding out in his vacation home in the Hamptons with his wife and kids.
