2 suspects charged with murder in death of 'General Hospital' actor Johnny Wactor

Monday, August 19, 2024
LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Two of the four suspects arrested in connection with the killing of former "General Hospital" actor Johnny Wactor have been charged with murder.

Robert Barceleau and Sergio Estrada, both 18, were each charged Monday in Los Angeles County Superior Court, District Attorney George Gascón said at a news conference.

Barceleau, of Huntington Park, was charged with murder, including a special circumstance allegation of killing in the commission of a robbery, which could lead to a life-without-parole prison term. He was also charged with attempted robbery and grand theft, both with allegations he was armed with a firearm.

Estrada was also charged with murder, but without the special circumstance allegation. He was also charged with attempted robbery and grand theft, both also allegedly while armed with a firearm. Estrada's charges have a maximum sentence of life in prison.

Leonel Gutierrez, 18, was charged with attempted robbery and grand theft, both with allegations he was armed. The fourth suspect in the case, Frank Olano, 22, of Inglewood, was charged with being an accessory after the fact to the killing, along with receiving stolen property and three counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm.

Wactor was shot and killed when he interrupted three thieves stealing the catalytic converter from his car on May 25. Police said the 37-year-old had left work at a downtown L.A. rooftop bar with a coworker when he saw three men who had hoisted his car. Police said one of them fired at him without provocation and killed him.

Los Angeles police say the defendants are affiliated with the gang, Florencia 13, and have lengthy criminal records.



Barceleau was being held without bail, and Estrada on just over $2 million bail, according to the DA's office.

The four suspects were arrested last Thursday.

Friends and family of Wactor say they're pleased with the charges but disappointed no gang enhancements were filed.



Friends, family and supporters of the 37-year-old actor gathered in downtown L.A. Monday morning, giving an emotional plea for the DA to pursue harsher penalties for the suspects.

The group "Justice for Johnny" also urged the city to take the strongest possible action against the suspects involved. Supporters called for federal charges to be filed.

City News Service and the Associated Press contributed to this report.

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