Full Breakdown
Murder of 5-Year-Old Elyjah Hearn in Panorama City: Facts, Investigation, and Legal Outlook
4/30/2026, 4:59:35 AM
Murder of Elyjah Hearn: Core Facts
On July 12, 2025, the naked body of 5-year-old autistic Elyjah Hearn was found wrapped in a fleece blanket inside a dumpster at 8200 block of Van Nuys Boulevard in Panorama City. Police allege his mother’s boyfriend, 21-year-old Brycson Malik Gaddis, beat him to death night before in a Lanark Street apartment and discarded body.
Timeline of Events
July 11, 2025 – beating in Lanark Street apartment. July 12 – body found in Van Nuys dumpster; video shows a man and woman carrying a blanket-wrapped figure. Autopsy released, Gaddis arrested and charged with murder and assault on a child causing death. He pleaded not guilty; court hearing set for May 13, 2025.
Autopsy Findings and Evidence
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner ruled death a homicide caused by blunt-force trauma. Injuries included a broken jaw, rib and liver lacerations, head contusions, facial abrasions, cuts, and blunt-force wounds. Several injuries were at different healing stages, indicating prior abuse. Trace methamphetamine was detected, and an asphyxial event could not be ruled out.
Legal Proceedings and Potential Penalties
Gaddis faces one count each of murder and assault on a child causing death, with a maximum penalty of 25 years to life in prison. He remains in custody on $2 million bail, has pleaded not guilty, and has not yet secured representation. He has a domestic-violence arrest, a protective order, and is not the child’s biological father.
Official Statements & Responses
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman called the case “truly heartbreaking and horrific,” pledged to secure justice, and expressed sympathy for the victim’s family.
Community Reaction
Family members described Elyjah as a joyful, fun-loving child who could operate electronic devices despite autism. A GoFundMe tribute highlighted his “innocent spirit” and the family’s grief.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The autopsy lists blunt-force trauma as the cause of death while noting an asphyxial event cannot be ruled out, leaving mechanism unresolved. Methamphetamine presence is reported without context. Mother’s legal status beyond being questioned and released remains unclear, and suspect’s attorney information is absent.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This is truly a heartbreaking and horrific case,” — Nathan J. Hochman, Los Angeles County DA
- “We are committed to seeking justice and will ensure this defendant is held responsible for his actions.” — Nathan J. Hochman, Los Angeles County DA
- “He was autistic, but that didn't slow him down. He could pick your phone up and go through it, any tablet. His speech was slow, but he understood and he was loving.” — Elyjah’s grandfather
- “Elyjah was a joyful, fun-loving child who brought light into every room he entered. He adored his family and was deeply loved in return,” — GoFundMe organizer
What’s Next
The next court hearing is set for May 13, 2025, where prosecutors will present the murder and assault charges. Ongoing investigation may further examine the asphyxial possibility and the source of methamphetamine.
