In a recent testimony, a former Sante Fe Police Department lieutenant, Timoteo Benavidez, revealed crucial information regarding the gun involved in the tragic shooting on the set of the film 'Rust' in 2021. Benavidez testified that when he received the gun at the scene, he took immediate precautions by checking the cylinder to ensure there were no rounds present.
Benavidez stated, 'I opened up the cylinder on this wheel gun and I ran the wheel to make sure there was no rounds in it.' His thorough examination confirmed that the gun was indeed empty, providing valuable insight into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Furthermore, Benavidez mentioned that he did not find any ammunition in the gun, indicating that it was not loaded at the time it was handed over to law enforcement. Additionally, he secured two boxes of ammunition, which he stated were intended for the gun used in the shooting.
This testimony sheds light on the meticulous procedures followed by law enforcement officials in handling the aftermath of the 'Rust' set tragedy. The revelation that the gun did not contain any rounds raises questions about how such a devastating incident could have occurred.
The role of Hannah Gutierrez Reed, the armorer for 'Rust,' also came into focus during Benavidez's testimony. According to him, Gutierrez Reed informed him that the ammunition he secured was meant for the gun involved in the shooting, adding another layer of complexity to the investigation.
As the investigation into the 'Rust' shooting continues, Benavidez's testimony provides crucial details that may help unravel the circumstances leading up to the tragic event. The revelation that the gun was unloaded at the time of inspection underscores the need for thorough safety protocols and oversight in the handling of firearms on film sets.
