It has been over two years since a deadly shooting incident on the set of Rust, and now actor Alec Baldwin has been indicted by a grand jury in New Mexico for his role in the tragedy.

The charge Baldwin is facing is of involuntary manslaughter, stemming from the fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, as Daily Mail reported.

The decision, announced on Friday, points to Baldwin's allegedly negligent handling of a firearm and lack of consideration for the safety of others. Baldwin could face up to 18 months in prison if found guilty.

Background and Legal Developments

This latest development follows the dismissal of previous charges by New Mexico prosecutors last April.

In response to the indictment, Baldwin's legal representatives, Alex Spiro and Luke Nikas, expressed readiness to present their case in court, stating, "We look forward to our day in court."

Similarly, Gloria Allred, representing Hutchins' family, emphasized their pursuit of truth and justice, both in the ongoing civil lawsuit and the criminal justice system.

Allred relayed her clients' response: "The grand jury has decided that there is sufficient evidence to indict Alec Baldwin on the charge of involuntary manslaughter. We are looking forward to the criminal trial which will determine if he should be convicted for the untimely death of Halyna."

Baldwin's Defense and the Forensic Report

Alec Baldwin has consistently held that he adhered to gun safety protocols, placing the blame on the armorer or film crew members who provided him with a gun loaded with a live round.

He has claimed that he was informed the gun was "cold" during the rehearsal of the scene.

Baldwin's assertion that the gun discharged without him pulling the trigger has been a key point in his defense.

However, a new forensic report by Lucien Haag of Forensic Science Services in Arizona contradicts this claim. The report suggests that the gun's trigger must have been engaged to release the hammer.

The Case's Impact and Baldwin's Current Situation

The legal saga, which began with Hutchins' death, has seen Baldwin assert his innocence through various media appearances, describing the incident as a tragic accident rather than a culpable act.

The initial charges against Baldwin, filed in Jan. 2023 by Mary Carmack-Altwies, then the First Judicial District attorney, have been a source of controversy.

Baldwin's team suggested Carmack-Altwies was seeking publicity. She eventually stepped down, leading to the appointment of a special prosecutor.

Baldwin's Legal Woes Escalate

In April of last year, the prosecution team decided to drop the charges, giving Baldwin a brief respite. This break was short-lived as the new charges have now surfaced, significantly impacting Baldwin's public image and career.

Recently, Baldwin was seen in a real estate video promoting the sale of his Hamptons property for $19 million, a reduction of $10 million from the original listing price.

This move is perceived by many as an attempt to manage escalating legal expenses. Additionally, there are rumors of the Baldwin family potentially participating in a reality TV show.