Chad Leigh comments

Also, having never held a gun before I have no idea how different a blank case looks to a live case. Would Baldwin have spotted it if he'd checked the chamber?

There are specific protocols that are used on film sets, which include lots of checks, as well as familiarization with the firearm by the armourer with the actor. He would have known. (And yes, a live round will look different). Baldwin is also the producer of the film, and has a higher responsibility. This is 100% on him.

Baldwin ignored the most fundamental firearms handling rules, the most basic of which is to always personally check and know the status of the firearm in hand. Even if you see the person check it and it is safe, when handed to you, you always perform the check yourself.

More importantly, Baldwin ignored the rules used in Hollywood film shooting regarding prop firearms. An acquaintance of mine is a director in Hollywood, and he made a post that outlines the exact rules, policies, and procedures that govern prop firearms at a movie shoot. Baldwin, who was an actor, but also the producer in this film, were willfully not following these rules and procedures. Baldwin, in my book, is therefore to be held liable/accountable since he knowingly ignored the rules that are in force on a movie set (which include the basic rules of firearms handling that everyone should be following). This is not a "finger slipped" accident, but a willful violation of policy and procedure and he should be held accountable (and in jail).