PANORAMA CITY, Calif. — A 20-year-old man has pleaded not guilty to charges of murder and child assault in the death of a 5-year-old boy, whose body was discovered in a dumpster earlier this year. Brycson Malik Gaddis, the former boyfriend of the child’s mother, Kemia Hearn, faces a cash bail set at $2 million.
Gaddis appeared in Van Nuys court on Monday, where the unsettling details of the case continued to unfold. In newly released surveillance video from the night of the incident, a man is seen carrying a blanket-wrapped object down Titus Street, the same location where the boy’s body was later found. Eyewitnesses have described the object as showing signs reminiscent of a child’s head and small feet.
The tragic death of Elyjiah Hearn has shocked the community, raising questions about the circumstances leading to his demise. According to a police search warrant, investigators recovered footage from Gaddis’ apartment that allegedly shows the accused accompanied by Kemia Hearn shortly before the boy was reported missing. The warrant indicates that investigators discovered blood evidence in multiple locations within the home, intensifying concerns about the boy’s treatment prior to his death.
Yousef Rabadi, co-owner of a nearby market, reported having received the disturbing video from a local security guard. He voiced frustration over the apparent neglect and abuse the boy had reportedly suffered, suggesting that the community had failed to act on signs of trouble. “Some of my customers know this child and have expressed concerns that this abuse had been ongoing,” Rabadi noted.
While Gaddis remains incarcerated, Kemia Hearn has been released after questioning by police. The events outside the courthouse escalated dramatically when Elyjiah’s grandfather brandished a firearm in the parking lot following the court hearing. He later stated that he felt threatened and used the gun to deter those perceived as threats toward his daughter.
The case has drawn significant attention, prompting discussions surrounding child welfare and community vigilance. As the legal proceedings move forward, many are left grappling with the harrowing details of this tragedy and the lessons it may hold for families and authorities alike.