In a high-profile case that captivated the nation, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, the armorer involved in the tragic fatal shooting on the set of the movie ‘Rust,’ has been released from a New Mexico prison after serving an 18-month sentence. This follows her conviction for involuntary manslaughter in the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.

Gutierrez-Reed exited the Western New Mexico Correctional Facility in Grants, heading back to her home in Bullhead City, Arizona, while under parole conditions linked to her conviction. In addition, she is also under probation after pleading guilty to unlawfully bringing a firearm into a licensed bar.

The incident that led to the charges occurred in October 2021, when actor Alec Baldwin was rehearsing a scene while pointing a prop gun at Hutchins, which tragically discharged, killing her and injuring director Joel Souza.

In March 2024, a jury found Gutierrez-Reed guilty on the manslaughter charge but acquitted her of tampering with evidence. Prosecutors argued that she negligently brought live ammunition to the film set and failed to adhere to fundamental gun safety protocols.

Prior to the ‘Rust’ filming, she had also faced scrutiny for carrying a weapon into a Santa Fe bar, where such firearms are banned. Following her release, the terms of her parole dictate that she undergo mental health evaluations and prohibits her from owning or possessing firearms.

As for Alec Baldwin, the involuntary manslaughter charges against him were dismissed, citing issues with evidence handling by law enforcement. Meanwhile, filming for ‘Rust’ has since wrapped up in Montana and the film has finally hit theaters this month.

This case continues to raise critical conversations around safety protocols in the film industry, making Gutierrez-Reed's story a focal point for debates on accountability and firearm use on set.