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Actor James Handy, 81, killed in stabbing in California

Published 5 June 2026

James Handy, an actor known for roles in films including "Top Gun: Maverick" and "Jumanji," died Wednesday after being stabbed outside his home in Tarzana, California. He was 81.

The Los Angeles Police Department responded to a residence on Erwin Street around 9:30 a.m. on June 3 after receiving a 911 call. The caller stated, "I am the son of man, I just killed the man of sin." Upon arrival, officers found Handy unconscious in the front yard with a stab wound to his chest. He was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The suspect, 44-year-old Michael Gledhill, later flagged down responding officers and identified himself as the person they were seeking, according to police. Gledhill was arrested and booked on suspicion of murder. His bail was set at $2 million.

Investigators said Gledhill resided at the home with his mother, who was Handy's girlfriend. A motive for the attack remains unclear. Police described the incident as isolated and said they believe there is no ongoing danger to the public.

Handy was a prolific character actor whose career spanned nearly five decades, beginning in the late 1970s. He made his on-screen debut in episodes of the...

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