August 20th 2024.
Two young men, both 18 years old, have been accused of the murder of former General Hospital actor Johnny Wactor. The District Attorney, George Gasón, announced the charges against Robert Barceleau and Sergio Estrada during a press conference on Monday in Los Angeles County Superior Court. Gasón expressed his heartache over the loss of such a talented and promising young actor.
On Thursday, the men, along with two other co-defendants, were arrested and scheduled to be arraigned on Monday afternoon. It is unclear if they have obtained legal representation at this time. An inquiry made to the county public defender's office remained unanswered.
Wactor tragically lost his life on May 25 when he interrupted a group of thieves stealing the catalytic converter from his car. The 37-year-old had just finished work at a rooftop bar in downtown LA when he noticed the men attempting to steal his car. Without provocation, one of the thieves shot and killed Wactor.
Barceleau and Estrada are also facing charges of grand theft and attempted robbery. Barceleau's charges include special circumstances, such as murder during an attempted robbery and personal use of a firearm, which could result in a life sentence without parole if convicted. Estrada's charges carry a maximum sentence of life in prison.
A third individual, Leonel Gutierrez, is being accused of grand theft and attempted robbery, while Frank Olano is facing charges of being an accessory after the fact.
Wactor's tragic death has become a rallying point for those in the city who are advocating for a tougher stance on crime. A group, known as "Justice for Johnny," consisting of friends and family, held a rally last week to bring attention to the case and call for a more urgent investigation. They held another rally on Monday morning, demanding for aggressive prosecution.
The police and public officials have assured the public that they are taking this case very seriously. During Monday's press conference, LAPD Interim Chief Dominic Choi stated that the investigation has been a relentless pursuit in a difficult case. Mayor Karen Bass also released a statement, emphasizing the need for aggressive action to make the city safer.
Barceleau is currently being held without bail, while Estrada's bail is set at just over $1 million.
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