Aug 16, 2024
2 mins read
2 mins read

General Hospital Actor Johnny Wactor’s Death: Four Arrested in Connection to Fatal Shooting

Nearly three months after the tragic shooting death of General Hospital actor Johnny Wactor, police have arrested four individuals in connection with the case.

On August 15, the Los Angeles Police Department announced the arrest of Robert Barceleau, 18, Leonel Gutierrez, 18, and Sergio Estrada, 18, who have been charged with murder. Additionally, 22-year-old Frank Olano was arrested on a warrant for accessory after the fact, according to a police news release.

The circumstances of Wactor’s death were grim. On May 25, the actor was fatally shot in downtown Los Angeles after he discovered thieves tampering with his vehicle. His mother shared with NBC Los Angeles that Wactor had come across the suspects while they were attempting to steal the catalytic converter from his car.

According to the LAPD, officers responded to the scene at 3:25 a.m. and found Wactor with a gunshot wound. He was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead. A May 28 press release from the LAPD detailed that Wactor had just finished his shift as a bartender and was confronted by three individuals who had lifted his car with a floor jack. The suspects shot him without provocation before fleeing the scene in a dark sedan.

Wactor’s coworker, Anita Joy, recounted the actor’s final moments on Instagram, revealing that he had attempted to de-escalate the situation calmly. She described how Wactor shielded her from the attackers before being shot, and how she held him in her arms as he succumbed to his injuries. Joy expressed her profound grief and anger, stating that her only solace comes from the hope that the perpetrators will face justice.

As of now, it has not been confirmed whether the four arrested individuals have secured legal representation. The investigation into Wactor’s death continues as authorities work to bring closure to this heartbreaking case.