A New Mexico judge has denied Alec Baldwin’s request to dismiss the involuntary manslaughter charge against him linked to the 2021 death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. The ruling by Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer means Baldwin’s trial will proceed as scheduled in July.

The charge stems from an incident on the set of the film “Rust,” where Baldwin inadvertently discharged a gun, killing Hutchins and injuring director Joel Souza during a rehearsal. Baldwin, who has pleaded not guilty, asserts he did not pull the trigger but only the hammer back.

Baldwin’s legal team had sought to dismiss the charge, arguing prosecutorial misconduct during the grand jury proceedings, including presenting false testimony and withholding exculpatory evidence. However, the judge found no evidence of “prosecutorial bad faith” or misconduct.

Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, the armorer responsible for firearm safety on the set, was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter in March and was sentenced to 18 months in prison. She is currently appealing the conviction.

Baldwin’s lawyers, anticipating their trial, stated, “We look forward to our day in court.” If convicted, Baldwin could face up to 18 months in prison and a $5,000 fine.