Alec Baldwin is on trial for 'Rust' shooting: How did we get here?

Nearly three years ago, Alec Baldwin pointed a loaded gun at the cinematographer of the low-budget western movie “Rust.” He thought the Colt .45 was empty; it wasn’t, and the gun fired, killing Halyna Hutchins.

The Oct. 21, 2021 tragedy in New Mexico has led to multiple civil lawsuits, including two brought by Hutchins’ family members (one of which has settled). And this week, Baldwin is scheduled to go on trial in a Santa Fe, N.

M. courtroom after being indicted in January on a charge of involuntary manslaughter in Hutchins’ accidental death. Jury selection begins Tuesday, kicking off an eight-day trial that experts predict will be the most-publicized criminal prosecution in New Mexico’s 112-year history.

Baldwin has pleaded not guilty. If convicted, the 66-year-old actor-producer could spend up to 18 months in prison. How did Baldwin’s case — which some experts believe is a stretch by prosecutors — get this far? Public pressure, high-stakes legal maneuvering and hubris all have played a role.

Production of the movie finished in Montana last year, but “Rust” doesn’t have a release date. In addition, New Mexico officials have denied the movie producers’ request for as much as $1.6 million in tax incentives.

Baldwin and his attorneys declined to comment. Baldwin’s criminal case suffered multiple setbacks. And Baldwin — long a polarizing figure — has invited additional scrutiny over some of his actions.

In a move questioned by experts, Baldwin agr.