Suspects in ‘General Hospital’ actor Johnny Wactor’s case have been charged with murder, a grim revelation announced by Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón during a somber press conference this past Monday.
Last week, four individuals were apprehended in connection with the tragic incident: Robert Barcelau, 18; Leonel Guiterrez, 18; and Sergio Estrada, who face serious murder charges. A fourth suspect, 22-year-old Frank Olano, was taken into custody for acting as an accessory.
The Grim Details of the Charges
Barcelau faces multiple serious counts that include murder with special circumstances related to robbery and firearm use. He is charged with one count of attempted robbery, also with a firearm, and grand theft while armed. If found guilty, he could be sentenced to life in prison without parole.
Estrada has also been charged with murder and carries allegations of being armed during the act. He could face a similarly severe punishment if convicted. Gutierrez’s charges include attempted robbery and grand theft, potentially resulting in nearly five years behind bars. Olano receives lesser charges but could still spend almost six years in prison.
Connections to Gang Activity
Barcelau is held without bail, while the others face hefty bail amounts: Estrada at over $2 million; Olano at more than $1 million; and Guiterrez at $120,000. All four suspects are scheduled for arraignment later on Monday. Lt. Ryan Rabbett from LAPD Central Homicide has confirmed these men have affiliations with the notorious Florencia 13 gang, hinting at a deeper connection to the gang’s activities.
Wactor met his tragic fate during the early hours of May 25. After bartending with a co-worker, he was shot near 1200 Hope Street in downtown Los Angeles. The police quickly became involved after receiving reports of a shooting, but despite their efforts, Wactor was later pronounced dead at the hospital.
“They were walking to their car when they noticed something was wrong. Johnny even engaged with a masked figure he thought was towing his car,” described Scarlett, Wactor’s loved one, illustrating the chaotic moments leading up to the fatal shot.
Utterly, a sense of helplessness enveloped those close to him. Scarlett shared, “He wasn’t even trying to protect his belongings; he would’ve handed over the car if needed. To me, these men acted like cowards.” The poignant loss reverberates through the lives Wactor touched.
Co-worker Anita Joy shared her grief on social media, vividly recalling how Johnny had shielded her in those final moments, reflecting on the dark violence that claimed his life. “He fought for his life, but it was an unrelenting situation,” she lamented, underscoring the harrowing reality many face in urban America.
“My only peace is that I was with him. He didn’t endure this alone,” stated Anita. “To know these men are caught would be relief amidst my grief.” Her words reflect the raw pain of losing someone to senseless violence, a reality for so many in society.
Johnny Wactor’s sudden departure leaves hearts aching, and friends and family continue their quest for justice. They have held multiple press conferences to keep his memory alive, particularly following the release of suspect images that have garnered public attention.
Wactor was known for his work on “General Hospital,” where he played Brando Corbin over 164 episodes from 2020 to 2022. His varied career also included roles in “Animal Kingdom,” “Criminal Minds,” and “Westworld.” The void left by his absence is tangible, affecting not just family but also fans and colleagues who cherished his contributions to the arts.
In a heartfelt homage, a funeral was held in June at the Summerville Baptist Church in his South Carolina hometown, a place that will forever hold his memories. With each service, those who loved him found solace among one another, united in their grief yet hopeful for justice to come.
