Suspects in actor Johnny Wactor's death charged with murder, attempted robbery

Four individuals suspected of being involved in the death of "General Hospital" actor Johnny Wactor in a May shooting have been charged in the murder case.

Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón announced charges against Robert Barceleau, Leonel Gutierrez, Sergio Estrada and Frank Olano on Monday, the DA's office shared in a statement.

The criminal charges come following the suspects' arrests Thursday after the Los Angeles Police Department's Central Bureau Homicide Division carried out search warrants.

Wactor, who was best known for his role as Brando Corbin on "General Hospital," died from a gunshot wound to the chest in downtown Los Angeles on May 25. He was 37.

Barceleau and Estrada were each charged with one count of murder, one count of attempted robbery and one count of grand theft.

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Gutierrez was charged with one count of attempted robbery and one count of grand theft. Olano was charged with one count of accessory after the fact to murder, one count of receiving stolen property and three counts of being a felon with a firearm.

The individuals were expected to be arraigned Monday.

Man who allegedly shot Johnny Wactor faces life in prison

In a statement shared Monday by the LA County District Attorney's office, Gascón emphasized the importance of seeking justice for Wactor's killing.

“Johnny Wactor’s life was senselessly taken while he was simply walking to his parked car in downtown Los Angeles. We are committed to seeking justice for Mr. Wactor and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable for their actions,” Gascón said. “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 felt by all of us.”

If convicted under the current charges, Barceleau faces life in prison without parole. Estrada faces a maximum of life in prison. Gutierrez faces four years, eight months in prison, and Olano faces five years, eight months in prison.

"To the family and loved ones of Johnny Wactor: We know that no legal action can ever bring back the person you have lost," LAPD Chief Dominic Choi said. "But we hope that today’s announcement brings some measure of comfort in knowing that those responsible will be held accountable.”

Barceleau, who allegedly shot Wactor in the chest, is being held without bail. Estrada is being held on nearly $2.1 million bail, and Olano's bail is set at $1.1 million. Gutierrez is being held on $120,000 bail.

Johnny Wactor shot, killed during suspected theft attempt

Wactor was shot around 3 a.m. May 25 during an attempted catalytic converter theft in the 1200 block of Hope Street, per LAPD's May 28 news release. Officers "began to render aid" to Wactor, who was later transported to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

"Based on witness statements, Wactor had ended his shift as a bartender at a local bar and walked to his vehicle. When Wactor arrived at his vehicle, he was confronted by three individuals who had Wactor's vehicle raised up with a floor jack and were in the process of stealing the catalytic converter," LAPD reported. "Without provocation, the victim was shot by one of the individuals."

Wactor's mother, Scarlett, reflected on her son's death in a May 26 interview with Fox News.

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"What I'd like for everybody to know is that they took a great human being," Scarlett said. "He lived life to the fullest, he chased his dreams (and was) a very optimistic, positive person."

She concluded: "I hope they catch (Wactor's killers), and I hope there’s justice for Johnny. That’s all I can hope and pray for. I will see him again."

Wactor's agent, David Shaul, previously remembered the actor as a "spectacular human being" in a statement shared with Variety.

"Our time with Johnny was a privilege we would wish on everyone," Shaul said. "He would literally give you the shirt off his back. After over a decade together, he will leave a hole in our hearts forever."

Contributing: Pamela Avila and Edward Segarra