James Handy, 'Top Gun: Maverick' Actor, Killed in Stabbing; Partner's Son Charged with Murder
James Handy, an 81-year-old actor known for roles in 'Top Gun: Maverick' and 'K-9,' was fatally stabbed on June 3 at his Los Angeles home; his partner's son, Michael Gledhill, 44, was arrested and charged with one count of murder. According to Handy's partner Wendy Gledhill, Handy went outside to retrieve the newspaper around 9 a.m. when an argument apparently ensued with Gledhill, who has been diagnosed with schizophrenia and had reportedly stopped taking his medication the week prior. The case highlights the intersection of mental health crises and violent crime, with Gledhill facing up to 26 years in prison.
James Handy, an 81-year-old actor with credits including 'Top Gun: Maverick' and 'K-9,' was fatally stabbed at his Los Angeles home on June 3. According to an account from his partner of 31 years, Wendy Gledhill, Handy went outside around 9 a.m. to retrieve the newspaper when an altercation apparently occurred with Gledhill's son, Michael Gledhill, 44, who was living in the home. Police arrived approximately 30 minutes later after a 911 call and found Handy unconscious and bleeding from multiple stab wounds to the chest; he was pronounced dead at a local hospital. Michael Gledhill was arrested and charged with one count of murder after reportedly making a confession to 911 dispatchers. Gledhill has been diagnosed with schizophrenia and, according to his mother, had stopped taking his medication the week before the incident, suggesting a possible mental health crisis as a contributing factor.
What's missing
The specific details of the argument that preceded the stabbing are not provided; neither Handy's nor Gledhill's account of what triggered the confrontation is included. Additionally, the nature of Gledhill's 911 confession and any statements he may have made to police are not detailed.
What different sources said
- New York PostRight
James Handy’s partner details ‘Top Gun’ actor’s tragic final moments before fatal stabbing
- New York PostRight
‘Top Gun: Maverick’ actor’s wife reveals he left for morning routine and next time she saw him he was beneath a blanket
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