Autopsy Reveals 5-Year-Old Body Died From Blunt Force Trauma in LA Dumpster Case

According to a newly released autopsy report, a 5-year-old boy was found inside a Los Angeles dumpster last summer, who died from blunt trauma.

The child, named Elyjah Hearn, was discovered in July in the Panorama City area. A person looking for recyclables found his body wrapped in a blanket inside a dumpster. He was naked, as per the information shared by the Los Angeles County medical examiner’s report.

The autopsy found about 90 signs of trauma on his body. These included broken bones, internal injuries, and multiple cuts and bruises. Medical examiners said the injuries were in a different stage of healing. This suggested the child was harmed over time, not in a single incident.

Investigators also noted injuries across his arms, legs, head, and torso. There were signs of internal damage, including tears to organs. Small traces of methamphetamine were found, but officials said it did not play a role in his death.

The cause of death was ruled a homicide caused by blunt force trauma.

Police charged Brycson Gaddis, 21, the ex-boyfriend of the child’s mother, with murder. Prosecutors allege he beat the child inside an apartment on July 11 and later dumped the body in a trash bin, where it was found the next day.

Gaddis has pleaded not guilty. He is being held on $2 million bail, which he has not paid. If convicted as charged, he could face 25 years to life in prison.

Court records show Gaddis has also been charged in other cases since the child’s death. These include allegations of assault, domestic violence, and carjacking.

Surveillance footage reviewed by investigators reportedly shows a man and woman carrying a bundle wrapped in a blanket on the same street where the body was later found.

Family members say they are struggling to process the loss. Elyjah’s grandfather, Troy Hearn, also shared his thoughts while speaking to the Los Angeles Times. “It’s very heartbreaking for [Gaddis] to do that to my 5-year-old grandson,” he said. “I’m overwhelmed and so angry that I can’t even explain it.”

The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office said prosecutors are determined to pursue the case. In a statement, they called it a “heartbreaking and horrific case” and said they are committed to holding the accused responsible.

The case remains pending as the court process continues.