Fresh details have emerged on the fatal stabbing of James Handy, 81, allegedly by Michael Gledhill, the son of Handy’s girlfriend.
New information outlines how an altercation allegedly escalated into a fatal stabbing on the porch of Handy’s girlfriend’s home on June 4.
What investigators and witnesses have revealed about James Handy’s death
According to TMZ, the medical examiner’s report has added new details to the investigation into Handy’s death. The Top Gun: Maverick actor allegedly got into a verbal altercation with Michael Gledhill on the porch of his girlfriend’s house.
The argument allegedly turned physical when Gledhill mounted Handy and dragged him to the side of the house. Investigators said Gledhill then went inside the home and retrieved what “appeared to be a knife.” After returning outside, he allegedly stabbed Handy in the torso.
According to TMZ, Gledhill later called 911. He said, “I am the son of man, I just killed the man of sin.” When officers arrived at the scene, he allegedly flagged them down and took responsibility for the stabbing. Handy was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
According to Forbes, the LAPD said in a statement, “On Wednesday, June 3, 2026, around 9:30 a.m., West Valley area patrol officers responded to a radio call of unknown trouble in the 19200 block of Erwin Street.”
When officers reached the property, police said Gledhill flagged them down and admitted responsibility for the stabbing. Handy was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The LAPD also confirmed that Gledhill was arrested on suspicion of murder and is being held at Van Nuys Jail on $2 million bail.
Police also said they believe it was an isolated incident and that “there appears to be no danger to the public at this time.”
Handy enjoyed a career spanning nearly five decades. He became a familiar face through supporting roles in films such as Top Gun: Maverick and numerous television series.
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