During the opening statements in defense of Alec Baldwin, Attorney Alex Spiro made a compelling argument regarding the concept of 'cold guns' in the film industry. Spiro emphasized that a 'cold gun' is a term used to describe a firearm that does not even have a fake bullet, let alone live ammunition.
According to Spiro, Baldwin was handed the gun by the armorer with the assurance that it was indeed a 'cold gun.' He clarified that the designation of a gun as 'cold' does not imply the absence of live bullets but rather the absence of any type of ammunition, including fake bullets.
Spiro went on to explain that the term 'cold gun' signifies that there is no need for additional safety measures such as eye gear or ear plugs, as there is no risk of any discharge or noise. He adamantly stated, 'Cold guns can't hurt people. It's impossible. Literally impossible for a cold gun to hurt somebody.'
Furthermore, Spiro highlighted the importance of trust between actors and the film crew, emphasizing that the belief in the safety of a prop as a 'cold gun' is crucial for artists to fully immerse themselves in their craft without fear of harm.
The defense's argument sheds light on the intricacies of firearm safety protocols on film sets and the reliance placed on the expertise of armorers to ensure the well-being of cast and crew members. As the trial progresses, the interpretation of industry terminology and the responsibilities of those involved in handling firearms on set will likely remain central to the case.
