On August 15, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) made significant strides in their ongoing investigation into the tragic shooting death of actor Johnny Wactor. The LAPD detained four suspects—three 18-year-olds and a 22-year-old—on murder charges related to the May 25 killing of Wactor, known for his role on General Hospital.
This development marks a crucial turning point in a case that has captured public attention and stirred considerable grief. According to a statement from the LAPD, the arrests came after a series of search warrants were executed early that morning at various locations across Los Angeles. The department revealed that they had recovered important evidence in connection with Wactor’s death, which they are continuing to probe.
Here’s a breakdown of the suspects who have been booked for murder:
- Robert Barceleau, 18, from Huntington Park
- Frank Olano, 22, from Inglewood
- Leonel Gutierrez, 18, from Los Angeles County
- Sergio Estrada, 18, also from Los Angeles County
The arrests are a significant update in the case, coming just 11 days after the LAPD released images captured from video footage. These images showed the suspects and the stolen black Infiniti Q50 sedan they were reportedly driving when Wactor was killed. This timely release of information helped push the investigation forward and led to the recent arrests.
For those not familiar with the heart-wrenching details of the case, Johnny Wactor was a well-loved actor whose life was cut tragically short. On the night of May 25, Wactor and a female colleague were heading to their vehicles after finishing their shift at a downtown Los Angeles bar. According to his brother, Grant Wactor, Johnny selflessly shielded his colleague when they encountered armed car thieves who were attempting to steal the catalytic converter from his vehicle. Despite his efforts to defuse the situation by stepping back and putting his hands up, Johnny was shot and succumbed to his injuries.
The medical examiner’s report confirmed that Wactor’s death was the result of a gunshot wound to the chest and officially classified it as a homicide. This heartbreaking news sent ripples through the community and the entertainment industry, leading to an outpouring of support for his family.
Since the tragedy, a GoFundMe page set up to help with the family's expenses has garnered over $144,000 in donations as of August 15. The outpouring of support underscores the deep impact Wactor had on those around him.
Wactor’s agent, David Shaul, who confirmed the actor’s death to PEOPLE in May, fondly remembered him as a “spectacular human being.” Shaul highlighted not only Wactor’s talent and commitment to his craft but also his moral integrity and generosity. “Johnny was not just a talented actor but a real moral example to everyone who knew him,” Shaul said. “He stood for hard work, tenacity, and a never-give-up attitude. Even through the highs and lows of a challenging profession, he kept his chin up and strived to be the best he could be.”
Shaul continued, “Our time with Johnny was a privilege 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.”
The ongoing investigation and recent arrests offer a glimmer of hope for justice in this deeply saddening case. As the legal process unfolds, the Los Angeles community and Wactor’s fans remain hopeful that these developments will lead to a sense of closure and accountability for the senseless violence that took his life.
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