Fun-Loving 5-Year-Old Found Dead in Dumpster After Alleged Beating by Mother’s Boyfriend
A devastating tragedy has shaken the Los Angeles community after the body of 5-year-old Elyjah Hearn was discovered beaten and discarded in a dumpster in a commercial parking lot. Authorities have charged Brycson Malik Gaddis, the boyfriend of Elyjah’s mother, with murder and assault on a child causing death, in what prosecutors describe as one of the most heartbreaking and horrific cases in recent memory.
According to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, the fatal beating occurred on July 11 at an apartment in Panorama City. “This is truly a heartbreaking and horrific case, and our deepest sympathies go out to the young victim’s family,” said District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman in a statement, vowing to pursue justice to the fullest extent of the law.
Disturbing Surveillance Video Emerges from Night of Killing
The investigation took a chilling turn when KABC obtained surveillance footage believed to be connected to the crime. The video reportedly shows a man walking alongside a woman, carrying what appears to be a blanket-wrapped object down the street—on the same night Elyjah’s body was later discovered in the dumpster.
Prosecutors allege that after brutally beating Elyjah inside the apartment, Gaddis disposed of the child’s body as if it were trash. The shocking discovery has left law enforcement officers and community members horrified. Gaddis appeared in court on August 18 and pleaded not guilty to the charges. If convicted, he faces life in prison.
Meanwhile, the boy’s mother was detained and questioned by authorities but has since been released. Investigators have not confirmed whether she will face additional charges, but many are questioning how such a crime could have occurred under her watch.
Remembering Elyjah: A Bright Light Gone Too Soon
Friends, family, and strangers are mourning the tragic loss of a child described as “fun-loving” and full of life. A GoFundMe page created to support funeral expenses paints a picture of a joyful little boy whose laughter, energy, and innocent spirit touched everyone who knew him. “He brought light wherever he went,” the campaign reads.
As the community grapples with grief and outrage, tributes have been pouring in for Elyjah on social media. Heartbroken messages describe a life cut short by senseless violence and call for swift justice for the young victim. Candlelight vigils are being organized in his memory, as loved ones vow never to forget the little boy who should have had a lifetime ahead of him.
