Thief Shouts ‘No!’ Before Accomplice Shoots Johnny Wactor: Police Investigation
When Johnny Wactor confronted three masked individuals attempting to steal the catalytic converter from his Toyota Prius last May, a heart-wrenching moment unfolded. One of the thieves shouted “No!” before his impulsive partner fired a single shot into the chest of the beloved “General Hospital” actor, as revealed by a detective at a recent preliminary hearing in downtown Los Angeles.
New Details Emerge
During the hearing for Robert Barceleau and Sergio Estrada, both 18, charged with the murder of Wactor, shocking revelations came to light. Despite pleading not guilty, the testimony shed light on the events leading up to the tragic incident. In a chilling jailhouse conversation recorded by authorities, Estrada expressed reluctance towards engaging in criminal activities with Barceleau, whom he described as “hot-headed.” He claimed to have warned Barceleau not to shoot before the fatal trigger was pulled, according to Det. Justin Howarth of the Los Angeles Police Department.
A Tragic Encounter
Wactor’s killers left behind a 2-ton floor jack next to his Prius, providing crucial evidence for the investigation. The fingerprints found on the jack implicated Barceleau, Estrada, and Leonel Gutierrez in the crime. Gutierrez and Frank Olano, two additional defendants involved in the case, have already entered pleas in relation to their roles.
Heartbreaking Loss
The events leading up to Wactor’s untimely death unfolded rapidly. Following a shift at the Level 8 lounge in the Moxy Hotel, Wactor returned to his car with a coworker, only to be met with a life-altering confrontation. As he confronted the thieves, a single shot rang out, leaving him mortally wounded. His colleague, Anita Gibney, recounted the harrowing moments that followed, as Wactor tragically passed away shortly after the altercation.
Gang Affiliations and Additional Crimes
Further investigations revealed that Barceleau and Estrada were part of the Dukes clique of the Florencia-13 gang, shedding light on a broader criminal network. Additionally, suspicions regarding their involvement in multiple other crimes, including a kidnapping and robbery at a cannabis dispensary, added a layer of complexity to the case.
The devastating loss of Johnny Wactor serves as a stark reminder of the dangers lurking in the shadows of our communities. As the investigation unfolds, the quest for justice continues, bringing closure to those affected by this senseless tragedy.
