Police Arrest Four in the Murder of ‘General Hospital’ Actor Johnny Wactor

Arrests have been made in connection with the shooting death of “General Hospital” actor Johnny Wactor, who was tragically killed in May.

The Los Angeles Police Department announced on Thursday that four suspects were apprehended in the case. Three individuals face charges of murder for the death of the 37-year-old actor, who succumbed to a gunshot wound to the chest on May 25 in downtown Los Angeles. A fourth man has been charged as an accessory to the crime.

Search warrants executed by the LAPD’s Central Bureau Homicide on Thursday morning culminated in the arrests and the recovery of evidence. The suspects charged with murder are Robert Barceleau, Leonel Gutierrez, and Sergio Estrada. Frank Olano, the alleged accessory, was booked on an arrest warrant.

According to booking records accessed by USA TODAY, Barceleau, Gutierrez, and Olano have a bail set at $2 million. Details on Estrada’s bail status were not available at this time.

Johnny Wactor made his television debut in 2007 on the Lifetime series “Army Wives.” He gained recognition for his portrayal of Brando Corbin on “General Hospital.”

On the night of his death, Wactor was shot around 3 a.m. during an attempted theft of a catalytic converter in the 1200 block of Hope Street, as reported by the LAPD on May 28. Officers arrived and attempted to render aid, but Wactor was later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.

According to witness statements collected by the police, Wactor had just finished his bartending shift and was returning to his vehicle. As he approached his car, he encountered three individuals attempting to steal the catalytic converter, with his vehicle lifted on a jack. Without warning, one of the individuals shot Wactor.

In the aftermath of the tragedy, Wactor’s mother, Scarlett, shared her thoughts during an interview shortly after his passing. “What I’d like for everybody to know is that they took a great human being,” she stated. She described her son as someone who lived life passionately, pursued his dreams, and maintained a positive outlook. “I hope they catch the killers, and I hope there’s justice for Johnny. That’s all I can hope and pray for. I will see him again,” she expressed.

Wactor’s agent, David Shaul, also offered his condolences. He remembered Wactor as a “spectacular human being” and stated, “Our time with Johnny was a privilege that we would wish on everyone. He would literally give you the shirt off his back. After over a decade together, he will leave a hole in our hearts forever.”

This incident has raised concerns about safety in urban areas and highlighted the increasing prevalence of theft crimes, which can escalate to violence.

As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of Johnny Wactor, a talented actor remembered by friends, family, and fans alike. His legacy will live on, not just in his work but also in the memories held by those who knew him.

Source: USA Today