Actor James Handy Stabbed to Death Outside His Home in Tarzana

James Handy, known for his roles in films such as “Jumanji” and “Top Gun: Maverick,” was found stabbed to death outside his home in Tarzana. The accused, Michael Gledhill, is the son of Handy’s girlfriend. Prosecutors charged him with murder, and he could face up to 26 years to life in prison if convicted.

The Los Angeles District Attorney’s office stated that the murder took place earlier this week. Nathan J. Hochman, the Los Angeles County District Attorney, emphasized the senselessness of the crime in a statement: “This is not how anyone’s life should end, stabbed in the chest and left dying in the front yard of a home. The victim, James Handy, deserved to live out his later years enjoying what he had worked so hard for and enjoying it with those he loved and cared about.” The district attorney further stressed the importance of holding the perpetrator accountable.

Police reported that Handy, aged 81, was discovered unconscious in his front yard with a stab wound to the chest following a 911 call. He was transported to a local hospital, where he later died. The caller had stated, “I am the son of man, I just killed the man of sin.” Gledhill, aged 44, reportedly approached officers upon their arrival, identifying himself as the suspect.

Gledhill lived with his mother, Handy’s girlfriend, at the Tarzana residence. He was charged with one count of murder with a special allegation of using a deadly weapon, specifically a knife. Authorities booked him into the Van Nuys Jail with a bail set at $2 million.