In the ongoing trial for the involuntary manslaughter of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of the film Rust, line producer Gabrielle Pickle defended her decision to reject a firearms training request just days before the tragic incident. Testifying at the trial of Rust armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, Pickle explained that she denied the request on October 17, 2021, as it was focused on actor Brady Noon, who was 15 years old at the time, and not specifically requested for Alec Baldwin’s benefit.
Pickle clarified that the training request was made for Noon to “learn” more about guns, as he did not have any scenes involving firearms in the movie. She emphasized that the denial was due to insurance concerns related to involving a minor in non-essential training. When asked if Gutierrez-Reed had requested additional training time with Baldwin, Pickle stated that the request was not phrased in that manner and that Baldwin’s presence was related to his character’s frequent interactions with Noon’s character.
Pickle’s decision-making came under scrutiny following the tragic shooting, with the New Mexico Occupational Health and Safety Bureau (OHSB) imposing a record civil penalty of $136,793 on Rust Movie Productions for their “plain indifference to recognized hazards associated with the use of firearms on set.” The OHSB report revealed that Pickle had reprimanded Gutierrez-Reed a week before Hutchins’ death for prioritizing guns over other props.
During cross-examination, Gutierrez-Reed’s defense lawyer, Jason Bowles, questioned Pickle about her statement that there would be “no more” training days. Pickle clarified that at that point, they did not require additional training days. She explained that she and Gutierrez-Reed had been in regular communication about armorer days and had agreed to keep track of them.
Gutierrez-Reed, a 24-year-old rookie armorer at the time of the incident, has pleaded not guilty to charges of involuntary manslaughter and tampering with evidence. Baldwin, who believed the gun he was handed was loaded with inert ammunition, is set to face trial in July after pleading not guilty to involuntary manslaughter.
2 Responses
While it is undoubtedly tragic that Halyna Hutchins lost her life on the set of Rust, it is important to consider the broader context and potential implications of firearms training for film crews. Gabrielle Pickle’s decision to reject the firearms training request may have been based on a careful assessment of the risks involved.
Firstly, it is crucial to acknowledge that film sets are highly complex and fast-paced environments. Introducing firearms into such an environment can significantly increase the potential for accidents and mishaps. Even
Pickle’s decision to reject the firearms training request is like a captain of a ship refusing to provide life jackets to the crew members before setting sail.