James Handy found fatally injured outside Los Angeles home in shocking case

James Handy, known for his role in Top Gun: Maverick, was fatally stabbed in Los Angeles after police say the suspect called 911 and confessed to the killing.

The 81-year-old actor was found unconscious with a stab wound to the chest in the front yard of his Tarzana home on Wednesday, June 3, according to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). He was later pronounced dead at a local hospital.

Authorities identified the suspect as Michael Gledhill, the 44-year-old son of Handy’s girlfriend. 

Police said Gledhill was taken into custody and charged with one count of murder, with bail set at $2 million.

Investigators responded to the scene after receiving a 911 call reporting “unknown trouble.”

During the call, the suspect allegedly made a disturbing confession, saying, “I am the son of man, I just killed the man of sin,” according to dispatch audio reviewed by investigators.

When officers arrived, they found Handy gravely injured in the front yard. Emergency responders transported him to hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Police also confirmed that the area surrounding the home was temporarily cordoned off as officers conducted door-to-door inquiries and secured the neighborhood.

Handy, born in New York City, built a decades-long acting career with supporting roles across film and television. 

His credits include Jumanji, Arachnophobia, Unbreakable, Logan, NYPD Blue, Alias, NCIS: Los Angeles, Criminal Minds, and Rizzoli & Isles.

He also appeared in Top Gun: Maverick, released in 2022, marking one of his final screen performances.

LAPD Robbery-Homicide Division continues to investigate the case, and authorities have urged anyone with additional information to come forward.