A Los Angeles man has been charged with murder after his girlfriend’s 5-year-old son’s body was discovered in what prosecutors call a “commercial parking lot dumpster.”
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office charged Brycson Malik Gaddis with one count of murder and one count of assault on a child that resulted in death.
According to the District Attorney’s Office, Gaddis is accused of beating the child to death in an apartment in Panorama City on July 11.
“This is a truly heartbreaking and horrific case, and our deepest sympathies go out to the young victim’s family,” District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman said in a statement. “We are committed to seeking justice and will ensure this defendant is held responsible for his actions.”
A GoFundMe page identified the child as Elyjah Hearn.
KABC obtained disturbing surveillance video from the night of the alleged murder, which appears to show a man walking with a woman and holding something wrapped in a blanket on the street where Elyjah’s body was discovered the next day.
According to the outlet, Gaddis appeared in court on August 18 and pleaded not guilty to the charges.
According to KABC, police questioned the boy’s mother before releasing her.
“Elyjah was a happy, fun-loving child who brightened up every room he entered. “He adored his family and was deeply loved in return,” the GoFundMe organizer wrote. “His laughter, energy, and innocent spirit moved everyone who knew him. His life was cut short far too soon, and we are heartbroken beyond words.”
