Johnny Wactor murder: LAPD arrests four in fatal shooting of the General Hospital actor

Four suspects have been arrested in connection with the tragic murder of General Hospital actor Johnny Wactor, who was fatally shot in downtown Los Angeles nearly three months ago. The 37-year-old soap opera star was gunned down on May 25 while trying to protect his friend from armed thieves attempting to steal his car’s catalytic converter. Johnny Wactor’s death sent shockwaves through the entertainment community, leaving behind a grieving family and devastated fans.

The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) made the announcement on August 15, stating that their Central Bureau Homicide division had executed search warrants at multiple locations across the city as part of the investigation. In a statement to PEOPLE, the LAPD revealed that several arrests had been made and key evidence recovered in connection with Johnny Wactor's killing.

"Early this morning, the Los Angeles Police Department's Central Bureau Homicide conducted search warrants relating to the Johnny Wactor case at several locations throughout Los Angeles," the statement read.

The investigation culminated in the arrest of four suspects: Robert Barceleau (18) of Huntington Park, Frank Olano (22) of Inglewood, and Leonel Gutierrez and Sergio Estrada (both 18) of Los Angeles County. These arrests followed just over a week after the LAPD released photos of the suspects and their getaway vehicle, a black Infiniti Q50 sedan.

Johnny Wactor, known for his roles in hit shows like Criminal Minds, Westworld, and NCIS, confronted the car thieves after catching them in the act. Despite being unarmed, Johnny Wactor heroically intervened, placing himself in harm's way to protect his friend. Sadly, this act of bravery cost him his life.

The LAPD confirmed that the suspects fled the scene, leaving Johnny Wactor critically injured. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, but tragically, his wounds were too severe, and he was pronounced dead upon arrival. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner later determined that Johnny Wactor had died from a gunshot wound to the chest, officially ruling his death a homicide.

Johnny Wactor’s brother, Grant Wactor, shared more details about the heartbreaking night. According to Grant, Johnny had finished a shift as a bartender and was walking to his vehicle when the thieves approached. Johnny Wactor’s instinct was to shield his colleague, stepping in front of her and raising his hands in a desperate attempt to de-escalate the situation. Despite his efforts, one of the suspects shot Johnny Wactor, ending his life in a senseless act of violence.

Johnny Wactor’s death has cast a dark shadow over the entertainment industry. He gained widespread recognition for his breakthrough role in General Hospital, but he had also appeared in several other popular series, including The OA, Station 19, Hollywood Girl, and Siberia.