Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, the armorer jailed for 18 months over the 'Rust' shooting, will not receive immunity to testify in Alec Baldwin's upcoming July trial for Halyna Hutchins' death, a judge ruled.

The decision, made by Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer, means Gutierrez-Reed—a critical witness due to her role in the tragic incident—cannot be compelled to testify for fear of self-incrimination as she appeals her conviction and faces another unrelated weapons case. This development complicates the prosecution's case against Baldwin, who has pleaded not guilty to involuntary manslaughter charges stemming from the 2021 incident in which Hutchins was killed and director Joel Souza was injured by a live round fired from a prop gun.

Prosecutors had requested 'use immunity' for Gutierrez-Reed, which would prevent any statements she made on the stand from being used against her in her own legal battles. Despite this, the judge decided that Gutierrez-Reed would not answer questions in Baldwin's trial, with or without immunity protections. In pre-trial interviews, she had invoked her constitutional right to remain silent.

Hannah Gutierrez-Reed has already been found guilty of criminal negligence for mistakenly loading a live round into the gun that Baldwin was using. Her 18-month jail sentence began in April.

Prosecutor Kari Morrissey emphasized Gutierrez-Reed's significant role in the case, describing her as 'an incredibly important witness.' Her absence on the stand could hinder the prosecution's ability to construct a comprehensive account of the events leading to Hutchins' tragic death on the set of 'Rust.'

During the incident in question, Baldwin was rehearsing a scene in which he pointed the firearm at Hutchins when it discharged. Baldwin has maintained that he did not pull the trigger, insisting that he only pulled back the gun's hammer. This claim has been central to his defense against the involuntary manslaughter charge, which carries a maximum sentence of 18 months in prison.

In contrast to Baldwin's claims, witness Zachariah Sneesby has stated in a pre-trial interview filed by the prosecution that he saw Baldwin pull the trigger. This testimony could prove pivotal as Baldwin's trial progresses. The judge allowed a group of defense witnesses to remain after the actor's legal team requested their removal, further intensifying the pre-trial proceedings.

The 'Rust' incident has had widespread ramifications within the film industry, prompting renewed scrutiny over on-set safety protocols, particularly concerning the use of firearms. The tragic event has led to calls for stricter regulations and adherence to safety standards to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Meanwhile, recorded phone conversations have surfaced in which Gutierrez-Reed expressed a desire to see Baldwin 'in jail,' adding another layer to the complex dynamics between the involved parties. This sentiment highlights the underlying tensions and challenges that may surface during Baldwin's trial.

Director Joel Souza, who was also injured in the incident, will be a significant figure as the case unfolds. His injuries and first-hand experience of the event will likely contribute to key testimonies that may affect the trial's outcome.

Legal experts are closely watching Baldwin's upcoming trial, which is set to commence in July. The proceedings will not only determine Baldwin's fate regarding the involuntary manslaughter charge but are also expected to have broader implications for accountability in the entertainment industry.

The tragic death of Halyna Hutchins remains a cautionary tale about the potential risks present on film sets, particularly when handling firearms. As Baldwin and other key figures prepare for the trial, the film industry continues to grapple with the need for improved safety measures.

The pre-trial legal maneuverings and Judge Sommer's decision on Gutierrez-Reed's testimony highlight the procedural elements involved in this case. All eyes will be on the court as Baldwin's trial seeks to uncover all the facts surrounding the tragic accident that has left an indelible mark on the film industry.