‘Top Gun: Maverick’ actor stabbed to death by girlfriend’s son at 81, police say

James Handy, a veteran actor known for his roles in blockbusters like Top Gun: Maverick and Jumanji, has died at the age of 81. According to reports provided by 205focus.com, the actor was killed during a stabbing incident Wednesday in the Tarzana area of Los Angeles.

Police Investigation

The Los Angeles Police Department reported that officers arrived at the 19200 block of Erwin Street around 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, following a 911 call from an individual who claimed, 'I am the son of man, I just killed the man of sin.' Upon arrival, authorities found Handy in the residence's front yard suffering from a chest wound. Despite being transported to a local hospital by Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics, he was pronounced dead.

Investigators identified the suspect as 44-year-old Michael Gledhill, who lived at the home with his mother, the girlfriend of the victim. Gledhill was taken into custody after flagging down officers at the scene. He is currently being held at the Van Nuys Jail on one count of murder, with bail set at $2 million.

Public Safety

While the circumstances surrounding the death are under investigation, authorities stated that they believe this was an isolated incident. Officials emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to the public related to this case.