Alec Baldwin's involuntary manslaughter trial in New Mexico commenced with the selection of sixteen jurors, comprising five men and eleven women, from whom twelve will serve as jurors and four as alternates. The trial arises from an incident during an October 2021 rehearsal on the set of the film "Rust," where a prop firearm discharged, fatally injuring cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and injuring director Joel Souza. Baldwin, facing potential imprisonment of up to 18 months if convicted, asserts that the gun discharged accidentally as he followed instructions to aim it at Hutchins, unaware it contained a live round.

Media access was restricted during jury selection, where potential jurors were questioned about their knowledge of the case and their ability to remain impartial. Baldwin, accompanied by his attorneys, including Alex Spiro, engaged in the selection process, which encountered initial technical delays but concluded as planned in a single day. His wife, Hilaria Baldwin, and brother, Stephen Baldwin, observed proceedings from the courtroom gallery.

The trial has drawn significant attention, with nearly all potential jurors indicating familiarity with the case. Despite challenges in selecting an impartial jury, Baldwin's defence team emphasized the need for fair consideration of the evidence, acknowledging the tragic loss of Hutchins' life and questioning jurors on their views regarding firearms and law enforcement testimony. The trial is set to begin with opening statements on Wednesday, marking a critical phase in determining Baldwin's legal responsibility for the fatal shooting on the film set.