Alec Baldwin is set to face trial on a charge of involuntary manslaughter in connection with the fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins during the filming of the movie "Rust" in 2021. The decision comes after a New Mexico judge, Mary Marlowe, denied Baldwin's motion to dismiss the case on Friday.

Hutchins tragically lost her life on October 21, 2021, while Baldwin was performing a scene on the set of "Rust." Baldwin, who pleaded not guilty, maintains that he did not pull the trigger of the prop gun, which discharged a live round, fatally striking Hutchins and injuring director Joel Souza.

Following a series of legal maneuvers, the path to Alec Baldwin's upcoming trial for involuntary manslaughter has been tumultuous. In April 2023, amidst the ongoing legal proceedings, Baldwin received a reprieve as charges against him were dropped. This development coincided following special prosecutor Andrea Reeb stepping down, and with the replacement of two new special prosecutors. However, the ruling was short-lived. In October of the same year, the new prosecutors brought forth evidence before a grand jury, seeking a determination on whether Baldwin should face criminal charges. Despite the earlier dismissal, the grand jury's deliberations concluded in January, resulting in Baldwin's indictment on charges of involuntary manslaughter.

The judge's ruling to deny the dismissal of the case follows a hearing of arguments presented by Baldwin's attorneys and prosecutors in a Santa Fe court on May 17. While Baldwin's legal team argued that critical evidence was omitted during the grand jury proceeding leading to his indictment in January, Special prosecutor Kari T. Morrissey emphasized Baldwin's responsibility in the incident.

Baldwin has maintained his innocence and will plead not guilty, with the trial scheduled to begin in July.