A Los Angeles judge has ruled that Michael Gledhill, the man accused of killing actor James Handy, is not mentally competent to face prosecution. The decision was made during a competency hearing held Monday before Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Maria Cavalluzzi.

Gledhill, 44, is charged with the fatal stabbing of Handy, an actor known for his roles in "Top Gun: Maverick" and "Jumanji." The incident occurred on June 3 at a residence in the Tarzana neighborhood of Los Angeles, where Handy was found unconscious in the front yard with a stab wound to his chest. Paramedics transported Handy to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Authorities responded to an emergency call from Gledhill, who reportedly told dispatchers, "I am the son of man. I just killed the man of sin." Upon police arrival, Gledhill reportedly flagged down officers and identified himself as the suspect. Police stated Gledhill resides in the Tarzana home with his mother, who is Handy’s girlfriend.

Gledhill was arrested at the scene and booked on suspicion of murder at Van Nuys Jail, with bail set at $2 million. He has not entered a plea and has yet to appear in court. Following his arraignment on June 5, court proceedings were paused, and the case was referred to a specialized mental health court for evaluation.

During Monday’s hearing, Judge Cavalluzzi found Gledhill unable to comprehend the charges against him or assist in his own defense. Based on a psychiatrist’s assessment, the judge also authorized involuntary medication for Gledhill for up to one year, citing potential benefits to his mental health and competency restoration.

Gledhill’s defense attorneys, Los Angeles County Deputy Public Defenders Donna Tryfman and Robert Krauss, emphasized that the competency ruling does not pertain to guilt or innocence. They stated that treatment and restoration efforts would take precedence before criminal proceedings resume. The defense also acknowledged the gravity of the allegations and the impact of Handy’s death on his loved ones.

A hearing to determine Gledhill’s long-term placement is scheduled for July 14. If he is later deemed competent, the case will proceed to trial.