“Top Gun: Maverick” actor James Handy was reportedly murdered by his girlfriend’s son in a chilling scene Wednesday morning.
According to The New York Post, a caller dialed 911 and stated, “I am the son of man, I just killed the man of sin,” prompting first responders to rush to the 19200 block of Erwin Street in Tarzana. Upon arrival, police discovered 81-year-old Handy unconscious in the front yard of a residence, suffering from multiple stab wounds to the chest. The outlet reported that he was transported to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead despite life-saving efforts.
A news release from the Los Angeles Police Department stated that 44-year-old Michael Gledhill allegedly flagged down officers at the scene and surrendered, according to The New York Post.
Police said Gledhill, who is the son of Handy’s girlfriend, was living with his mother at the time of the alleged attack. According to Fox News, Gledhill and Handy had argued Tuesday night, though the nature of the dispute and the events that led to the alleged incident have not been disclosed.
Gledhill was arrested for murder and bail was set at $2,000,000, according to The New York Post. (RELATED: ‘Alaskan Bush People’ Star Matt Brown Was High On Meth When He Fatally Shot Himself In The Head, Coroner Says)
James Handy, a veteran actor who appeared in “Top Gun: Maverick” and “Jumanji,” was stabbed to death in Los Angeles by his girlfriend’s son, the LAPD said. https://t.co/oMDW3ktCaI pic.twitter.com/M1wKbQKOv3
— Variety (@Variety) June 5, 2026
Handy was a veteran actor who began his career in the ’70s. He had nearly 150 acting credits to his name, including roles in “Jumanji,” “Arachnophobia,” and “Taps.”
His television appearances included popular shows “The West Wing,” “NCIS: Los Angeles,” “ER,” “The X-Files,” “9-1-1,” CSI: NY,” “The Young and The Restless,” and “Without a Trace.”
This is a developing story.

