Hannah Gutierrez-Reed

Hannah Gutierrez-Reed was the armorer on the set of the Western film “Rust.” In October 2021, a gun that was held by actor Alec Baldwin discharged, striking and killing cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. Director Joel Souza was also injured. Hannah Gutierrez-Reed was charged with two counts of involuntary manslaughter in January 2023.

Hannah Gutierrez-Reed’s Father Was Thell Reed

Hannah Gutierrez-Reed is the daughter of Thell Reed, a well-known Hollywood armorer who worked in hit movies like 1997’s “L.A. Confidential” and 2006’s “Miami Vice.” He was born and raised in Downy, California. According to his profile, he worked intimately with actors like Brad Pitt and Val Kilmer to develop “realistic gun handling.” He was also used as a quick draw expert on Quentin Tarantino’s film “Django Unchain” in 2012. He is said to have passed his knowledge on to his daughter.

‘Rust’ Was Hannah Gutierrez-Reed’s Second Film As An Armorer

Although her father had extensive training with firearms, Hannah did not. “Rust” was only the second time that she worked as a lead armorer on a film set. Her first film experience was on the set of “The Old Way,” which starred Nicolas Cage. Several publications have noted that Hannah Gutierrez-Reed was criticized for her weapon’s handling on “The Old Way.” Several cast members from “Rust” had also come forward to criticize her weapon’s handling on the set of the Western film.

Hannah Gutierrez-Reed Faces Additional Charges Over ‘Rust’ Death

In January 2023, both Hannah Gutierrez-Reed and Alec Baldwin were charged with two counts of involuntary manslaughter in connection with Hutchins’ death. The charges against Baldwin were dropped in April 2023 without prejudice as the investigation continues. In June 2023, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed faced additional evidence tampering charges. Special prosecutors alleged that she handed cocaine to another person on the day that Hutchins was killed. Her legal team has strongly denied these allegations. Her hearing is set for August 2023.