DA Gascón files charges for the murder of actor Johnny Wactor in connection with the theft of a catalytic converter

Four suspects charged in fatal shooting of 'General Hospital' actor

Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón announced Monday that four people have been charged in connection with the shooting death of actor Johnny Wactor, who died in May while attempting to steal a catalytic converter.

“Johnny Wactor's life was senselessly taken as he was simply walking to his parked car in downtown Los Angeles,” Gascón said in a statement. “We are committed to seeking justice for Mr. Wactor and ensuring those responsible are held accountable for their actions. The loss of this talented young actor who was in the prime of his life and had so much to offer the world is deeply saddening to all of us. Our condolences go out to his family, friends and the entire community as they mourn this devastating loss.”

Wactor, 37, was leaving his bartending job at the Moxy Hotel in downtown Los Angeles on May 25 when he encountered three men attempting to steal the catalytic converter from his car parked near Hope Street and Pico Boulevard. According to the indictment, one of the suspects, Robert Barceleau, shot Wactor once in the chest. Wactor was later pronounced dead at a local hospital.

Barceleau, 18, faces multiple charges, including murder under special circumstances during an attempted robbery, attempted robbery and grand larceny, all with weapons charges. He is being held without bail and could face life in prison without the possibility of parole if convicted.

Sergio Estrada, 18, is charged with murder, attempted robbery and grand larceny, all with possession of a firearm. He is being held on $2,070,000 bail and could face life in prison if convicted.

Leonel Gutierrez, 18, is charged with attempted robbery and grand theft, both with possession of a firearm. He is being held on $120,000 bail and faces up to four years and eight months in prison.

Frank Olano, 22, is charged with aiding and abetting murder, receiving stolen goods and illegal possession of a firearm. He is being held on $1,080,000 bail and faces up to five years and eight months in prison if convicted.

The case is being investigated by the LAPD Central Bureau's Homicide Unit. LAPD Chief Dominic Choi expressed confidence that the investigation will be conducted thoroughly. He said investigators have “worked tirelessly to gather evidence, interview witnesses and follow every lead to ensure justice is served.”

Mayor Karen Bass said in a written statement: “First, I want to express my condolences to the Wactor family and the community as they mourn his loss. I want to thank the LAPD for their work and partnership throughout the investigation and for their continued efforts to keep Los Angeles residents safe and bring justice to victims of violence. We must continue to take aggressive action to make our city safer. Those who commit crimes must be held fully accountable for their actions.”

The defendants are scheduled to be arraigned Monday in Department 30 of the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center.