Los Angeles — Authorities announced the arrest of two individuals Thursday in connection to the fatal shooting of Johnny Wactor, a former actor on the television series “General Hospital.” The incident, which occurred last month, involved Wactor walking upon a trio attempting to steal the catalytic converter from his vehicle in downtown Los Angeles.
Wactor, 37, was confronted and subsequently shot around 3:30 a.m. on May 25 near the intersection of Hope Street and Pico Boulevard, where his vehicle was parked. According to police, the suspects were caught in the act of removing the catalytic converter from Wactor’s car when they were approached by him and a coworker after their bartending shifts at a nearby establishment.
Details from an affidavit indicated that the Los Angeles Police Department focused its investigation on three suspects, identified as Robert Barceleau, Sergio Estrada, and Leonel Gutierrez. Their fingerprints were reportedly discovered on a floor jack at the scene. As of Thursday, Barceleau and Gutierrez, both 18, were in custody with bail set at $2 million each.
Early Thursday morning, LAPD officers executed search warrants related to the investigation, including searches for more individuals involved in catalytic converter thefts across the city. The effort also pinpointed a specific local gang allegedly connected to such criminal activities.
During the enforcement operation captured on local television, the police raided a property on 62nd Street in South Los Angeles. Neighbors there highlighted the location as one frequently associated with problematic behavior, including past thefts of catalytic converters.
The investigation has drawn significant attention, urging community members to come forward with any information. Days prior to the arrests, law enforcement officers had canvassed the area, distributing flyers seeking tips that could lead to solving the case.
The tragedy has sparked a profound emotional response from Wactor’s family and friends. His mother, Scarlett Wactor, expressed her enduring grief publicly, lamenting the upcoming milestones she will have to face without her son.
Following the crime, officials disclosed images of a stolen 2018 black Infiniti Q50, allegedly used by the suspects to flee northbound on Hope Street. The Los Angeles community and police are urging the public to assist in finding the third suspect and others who may be involved, advocating for anyone with information to contact the LAPD.
Wactor’s credits include nearly 200 episodes of “General Hospital” along with appearances on “Westworld,” “The OA,” and other popular television series. His untimely death has not only deprived the entertainment world of a talented artist but also highlighted the ongoing issues of urban crime and public safety.
The Los Angeles police continue to investigate and ask for the public’s help, offering avenues for anonymous tips through established community resources. The suspects, when apprehended and charged, are expected to face significant legal repercussions for their actions in relation to Wactor’s death.