Johnny Wactor's friends and family are pushing for tougher action on crime in Los Angeles as suspects in the actor's death remain at large

DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES (KABC) – Family members and friends of Johnny Wactor, a former “General Hospital” actor who was killed in a catalytic converter theft in downtown Los Angeles, are calling on city authorities to be more aggressive in the search for his killers.

Wactor's mother, friends, family members and leaders of the #JusticeForJohnny movement held a press conference on Tuesday calling on the city to provide more resources to police to ensure safety in LA.

Last week, police released photos of the suspects and the vehicle linked to the murder. The newly released images show a stolen black 2018 Infiniti Q50 sedan that the suspects used to flee the scene.

READ MORE | LAPD releases photos of suspect and vehicle in connection with killing of 'General Hospital' actor Johnny Wactor

“We will continue to demand justice and ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their actions,” said City Councilman Kevin de León during Tuesday's press conference. “We will bring them to justice and restore safety to our streets and ensure that no family has to endure the pain that [Wactor’s mother] continues to this day.”

Wactor, 37, was shot early in the morning of May 25 as he and a co-worker walked to his parked car near the intersection of Hope Street and Pico Boulevard after his shift as a bartender.

According to police, the two encountered a gang of men who were trying to steal the catalytic converter from Wactor's car, and one of them shot Wactor as he approached.

“Grief is my constant companion,” said the actor's mother, Scarlett Wactor. “He promised me he would be here with me today. I can't wish him a happy birthday on August 31st. He would have turned 38. I can't ask him if he's coming home for Christmas. I can't ask him how his day was. I don't get any of that anymore because of what these people did… for a catalyst they didn't get.”

Since then, little has been known about the three suspects who remain at large. The suspect who police say shot Wactor in the chest is said to have a tattoo above his left eye and on his right cheek.

“I'm asking anyone who knows anything to come forward,” the actor's mother said. “It will help his brothers heal if we know they were caught, convicted and will receive the harshest punishment.”

Catalytic converters are a popular target for thieves because they are rich in precious metals that can be resold.

Wactor appeared in nearly 200 episodes of General Hospital from 2020 to 2022. His other roles have included Westworld, The OA, NCIS, Station 19, Criminal Minds and Hollywood Girl.

Anyone with information is asked to contact investigators at (213) 996-4143 and (213) 996-4173.

City News Service contributed to this report.