Two persons have been charged in the murder case of actor Johnny Wactor, who was shot dead in downtown Los Angeles while trying to stop a theft on May 25, 2024. The accused, 18-year-olds Robert Barceleau and Sergio Estrada, were each charged with one count of murder, Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón said on August 19. Four suspects -- Barceleau, Estrada, 18-year-old Leonel Gutierrez, and 22-year-old Frank Olano-- were arrested on August 15.
Wactor was reportedly killed while protecting a female co-worker from armed robbers who shot him over a catalytic converter. The General Hospital-famed actor was walking his friend to her car when he encountered the three thieves around 3:25 am, according to his brother Grant, as reported by the Daily Mail.
Two Charged With Murder
Robert Barceleau faces an allegation of killing during an attempted robbery and personal use of a firearm. The Los Angeles County prosecutors said that the teenager is also charged with attempted robbery and grand theft, both while allegedly armed with a gun. If convicted, he could be sentenced to life without parole.
Sergio Estrada is additionally charged with attempted robbery and grand theft, both also while allegedly armed with a gun. He could be sentenced to a maximum of life in prison if convicted. Leonel Gutierrez is charged with attempted robbery and grand theft.
Gutierrez faces an allegation that he was armed with a firearm during both alleged crimes. If convicted, he faces four years and eight months in prison. Frank Olano is charged with accessory after the fact to murder, receiving stolen property and three counts of being a felon with a firearm. If convicted, Olano faces five years and eight months, according to prosecutors.
The four suspects were scheduled to be arraigned on August 19, prosecutors said. Robert Barceleau was being held without bail, while Estrada was being held on $2,070,000 bail, Olano was being held on $1,080,000 bail and Gutierrez was held on $120,000 bail, the District Attorney's office said.
Attorney Gascón said, "Johnny Wactor’s life was senselessly taken while he was simply walking to his parked car in downtown Los Angeles... He was a talented young actor, who was in the prime of his life and had so much to offer the world... We are committed to seeking justice for Mr. Wactor and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.”
Johnny Wactor Fatally Shot In LA
'We’re from the South, and we’d never let a woman walk to her car alone. He saw them and thought his truck was being towed. He said something like, ‘Hey, are you towing?'" his grieving brother explained.
"When he realised what was happening, he put his co-worker behind him. That’s when they shot him." The actor was backing away and trying to protect his co-worker when the robbers opened fire, Grant said, citing the Los Angeles Police Department’s report on the incident.
Wactor's mother, Scarlett Wactor also confirmed the details to KABC. She explained that her son had been walking with a coworker after finishing his shift at a downtown rooftop bar when he noticed what appeared to be someone working on a car.
The police reported that three men were attempting to steal a catalytic converter when Wactor intervened. One of the suspects then pulled out a gun and shot him before the trio fled in a vehicle. Johnny was rushed to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead, an officer confirmed. However, the LAPD did not officially identify Wactor as the victim.
David Shaul, Wactor’s agent, released a statement to CNN, describing Johnny as a remarkable person. "He was not just a talented actor dedicated to his craft but a real moral example to everyone who knew him," Shaul said. "Johnny embodied hard work and determination, always striving to be the best he could be. Our time with Johnny was a privilege, and he would literally give you the shirt off his back. After over a decade together, he will leave a hole in our hearts forever."
Johnny Wactor's portrayal of Brando Corbin on General Hospital spanned from 2020 to 2022, according to IMDb. Besides his role in the soap opera, he also appeared in Criminal Minds and Siberia.
The entertainment community and fans are mourning the loss of Wactor, who was remembered not only for his acting talents but also for his generosity and strong moral character.
/shethepeople/media/agency_attachments/iUYfaBbcMozaYLoGnoov.png)
/shethepeople/media/member_avatars/4FGyuvwBciC6LndcgpY2.jpeg )
Follow Us/shethepeople/media/media_files/I9HNy1vfuyDREgVvICoe.png)