Title: FBI Doubts Alec Baldwin's Account in "Rust" Shooting Incident

An expert in firearms from the FBI confirmed on Monday that the gun held by actor Alec Baldwin, which discharged a live round that killed cinematographer Halyna Hutchins during the filming of "Rust" in 2021, would not have fired while in a ready position without Baldwin pulling the trigger. This testimony contradicts that of Hannah Gutierrez, the film's armorer, and Baldwin's initial statement after the incident, which also resulted in injuries to director Joel Souza. Baldwin had testified that he prepared the weapon for firing but did not pull the trigger. Gutierrez's lawyers claim she is being sacrificed to cover Baldwin's failure to follow basic firearm safety rules. FBI expert Bryce Zigler stated in his testimony, "The gun would not have fired without pulling the trigger while in a cocked position." In a television interview with ABC in December 2021, Baldwin denied responsibility for the shooting, explaining that it was Gutierrez's and others' responsibilities to ensure gun safety and that live ammunition was not used on set. A trial date for Baldwin, who faces involuntary manslaughter charges, has yet to be determined.