Actor identified as victim of fatal shooting near DTLA

Lina PortmanMay 27, 2024

0 1 minute read

LOS ANGELES – The man fatally shot after encountering three suspects who allegedly tried to steal a catalytic converter near downtown Los Angeles early Saturday was 37-year-old actor Johnny Wactor, who appeared in nearly 200 episodes of “General Hospital” from 2020 to 2022. according to his agent.

Wactor’s agent, David Shaul, told Variety that “Johnny Wactor was a spectacular human being. Not just a talented actor dedicated to his craft, but a true moral example to all who knew him. Representing hard work, tenacity and a never give up attitude. Through the ups and downs of a difficult profession, he always kept his head held high and continued to strive to give his best.

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

Police said Wactor observed the suspects trying to remove the catalytic converter from his vehicle around 3 a.m. Saturday in the area of West Pico Boulevard and South Hope Street. One of the suspects shot him, then the trio fled the scene, according to Los Angeles police.

Emergency services rushed him to hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

No description of the suspects was immediately available.

TMZ cited Wactor's mother, Scarlett, who told the entertainment site that her son and a co-worker saw three men near Johnny's car. She said he didn't try to stop the robbers, but one of them shot him anyway.

Catalytic converters are prime targets for thieves because they are rich in precious metals that can be resold.

Besides “General Hospital,” Wactor’s other credits include “Westworld,” “The OA,” “NCIS,” “Station 19,” “Criminal Minds” and “Hollywood Girl.”

Anyone with information regarding the shooting was asked to call the LAPD Central Station at 213-486-6606. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or visit lacrimestoppers.org.