Veteran actor James Handy, 81, was found dead at his home in Tarzana, California, on Wednesday morning after suffering multiple stab wounds to the chest. The Los Angeles Police Department arrested Michael Gledhill, 44, the son of Handy's girlfriend, in connection with the death.
Police responded to the scene at 9:30am after receiving a 911 call. According to the Los Angeles Police Department statement, the caller said: "I am the son of man, I just killed the man of sin." When officers arrived, Gledhill told them he was "the one they were looking for."
"The suspect resides at the location with his mother, who is the victim's girlfriend," the police statement said. Gledhill has been charged on suspicion of murder, with bail set at 2 million dollars.
Handy was born in New York City and began his acting career in 1977 on the television series Ryan's Hope. He went on to appear in numerous films and television shows across multiple decades. His filmography includes character roles in Jumanji, Top Gun: Maverick, and Logan. He also had credits in K-911, Law and Order, NCIS: Los Angeles, and Criminal Minds. His most recent film appearance was in Top Gun: Maverick in 2022.
The 2022 film brought Handy recognition among new audiences as part of the sequel to the original 1986 Top Gun. He appeared alongside other cast members in supporting roles within the major Hollywood production.
The Los Angeles Police Department is continuing its investigation into the fatal stabbing. The department did not provide additional details about the circumstances that led to the stabbing or the nature of the relationship between Handy and Gledhill beyond their connection through Gledhill's mother.
Handy's death marks the end of a career spanning nearly five decades in entertainment. His work in television and film established him as a character actor known for supporting roles in major productions. The incident at his Tarzana residence has drawn attention to his contributions to Hollywood over his long career in the industry.
Authorities have not released further information about potential additional charges or upcoming court proceedings for Gledhill at this time.