General Hospital actor Johnny Wactor was tragically killed during an attempted catalytic converter theft on May 25, 2024. According to multiple sources, including the Los Angeles Police Department and Wactor's mother, the incident occurred around 3:25 a.m. near Pico Boulevard and Hope Street in downtown Los Angeles.
Wactor was identified as the victim by his mother and LAPD, who confirmed that he was shot by one of the suspects during the robbery attempt. The three suspects fled in a vehicle after the shooting, leaving Wactor to be pronounced dead at a local hospital.
The actor, who was 37 years old, had recently been working as a bartender before exploring opportunities in screenwriting. He was best known for his role as Brando Corbin on General Hospital from 2020 until 2022. Wactor also appeared in various other television shows and films throughout his career.
Wactor's mother, Scarlett, shared her grief on social media and confirmed that her son was the victim of the shooting. She described how he had been approached by a person with a mask while returning to his car after working late at a rooftop bar. When Wactor asked if they were towing his car, the suspect revealed himself and shot him.
The LAPD has not yet released any information regarding the suspects or their whereabouts. Catalytic converters are popular targets for thieves due to the precious metals they contain, including platinum, palladium, and rhodium. California accounts for 37% of catalytic converter theft claims nationwide.
Wactor's death has left a profound impact on his colleagues and fans in the entertainment industry. Many took to social media to express their condolences and share memories of the talented actor.