The death of actor James Handy has shaken the film industry after the Los Angeles Police Department revealed that his girlfriend‘s son, Michael Gledhill, was arrested and booked for Handy’s murder. The late 81-year-old Top Gun: Maverick star was stabbed at his home in Los Angeles, California, on June 3, 2026.
So, who exactly is Gledhill, and what was his motive behind allegedly stabbing Handy? Here’s what we know about Gledhill and the case so far.
Who Is James Handy’s Girlfriend?
Police did not publicly disclose the name of Handy’s girlfriend in their announcement. It’s unclear who she is.
Who Is Michael Gledhill?
Gledhill is a 44-year-old man from the Tarzana neighborhood in Los Angeles. As previously noted, he is the son of Handy’s girlfriend and the suspect in Handy’s fatal stabbing.
Gledhill was arrested by the LAPD on suspicion of murder, and transported to Van Nuys Jail and booked for one count of murder. His bail was set at $2 million.
According to a news release, LAPD responded to a 911 call on June 3, 2026. The person who dialed 911 told authorities, “I am the son of man, I just killed the man of sin.”
The LAPD further noted in the news release that Gledhill “flagged down nearby responding officers, telling them he was the one they were looking for.”
“The suspect resides at the location with his mother, who is the victim’s girlfriend,” police added. “Detectives believe this is an isolated incident and there appears to be no danger to the public.”
How Did Michael Gledhill Know James Handy?
Since Gledhill is the son of Handy’s girlfriend, they’ve likely crossed paths multiple times. According to the New York Post, Gledhill lives at a Los Angeles home with his mother.
What Happened to James Handy? His Death Explained
The LAPD announced that Handy was stabbed in the chest and that Gledhill claimed responsibility. In his words, Gledhill told authorities in his 911 call, “I am the son of man, I just killed the man of sin.”
The motive behind Handy’s stabbing is still unclear.
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