James Handy, the 81-year-old actor renowned for his roles in films such as Jumanji and Top Gun: Maverick, was discovered fatally wounded at his residence in Tarzana on Wednesday.
Authorities reported that Handy was found unconscious in his front yard with multiple stab wounds to his chest.
Michael Gledhill, 44, the son of Handy’s girlfriend, has been taken into custody on suspicion of murder, according to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).
Police responded to a call regarding “unknown trouble,” during which the caller stated, “I am the son of man, I just killed the man of sin.”
Born in New York, Handy’s career spanned over six decades, featuring appearances in numerous films and television series.
Although he often played supporting roles or appeared in limited episodes, his extensive filmography includes notable titles such as NYPD Blue, K-9, Law & Order, CSI: NY, Logan, Alias, Castle, NCIS, The West Wing, Arachnophobia, The X-Files, and Murder, She Wrote.
His latest film appearance was in 2022’s Top Gun: Maverick, where he portrayed Jimmy, a bartender who interacts with Jennifer Connelly’s character, Tom Cruise’s love interest.
The LAPD revealed that Gledhill approached nearby officers shortly after the incident, declaring himself as the suspect they were seeking.
”The suspect resides at the location with his mother, who is the victim’s girlfriend,” a police statement indicated.
Detectives believe this incident is isolated and that there is no ongoing threat to the public.
Following his arrest, Gledhill was taken to Van Nuys Jail and charged with one count of murder.
His bail has been set at $2 million (£1.5 million).
By: Magdalene Agyeiwaa Sarpong