Murder charge in connection with the death of Johnny Wactor at General Hospital

The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has charged two of the four men arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of “General Hospital” actor Johnny Wactor with murder, TheWrap has learned.

Robert Barceleau, 18, of Huntington Park, and Sergio Estrada, of Los Angeles County, were charged with murder on Monday. In addition to Barceleau's murder charge, he was also charged with murder during a robbery under special circumstances, which could bring him a life sentence without parole.

“Johnny Wactor's life was senselessly taken as he was simply walking to his parked car in downtown Los Angeles. We are determined to seek justice for Mr. Wactor and ensure those responsible are held accountable for their actions,” Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascón said in a media statement. “The loss of this talented young actor who was in the prime of his life and had so much to offer the world is deeply distressing to all of us. Mr. Wactor's work and presence touched the lives of many, and our condolences go out to his family, friends and the entire community as they mourn this devastating loss.”

Barceleau was also charged with attempted armed robbery and armed grand larceny and is being held without bail. Estrada was also charged with armed robbery and armed grand larceny.

As for the other two suspects, 18-year-old Leonel Guitierrez and 22-year-old Frank Olano, Guitierrez was charged with attempted robbery, where the offender was allegedly armed with a firearm, and grand larceny, where the offender was allegedly armed with a firearm. Olano was charged with aiding and abetting murder, receiving stolen goods, and three counts of possession of a firearm.

The men were arraigned on Monday and their charges are the latest development in the Wactor murder case. The actor was leaving his bartending job in downtown Los Angeles early on the morning of May 25 when he noticed a group of three men apparently trying to steal the catalytic converter from his car. Barceleau allegedly shot Wactor once in the chest. He died at a local hospital.

On August 4, the LAPD issued a public alert that included photographs of three suspects in the shooting and the vehicle in which they left.

The case is being investigated by the LAPD's Central Bureau of Homicide. Barceleau is being held without bail. Estrada is being held on $2,070,000 bail. Olano is being held on $1,080,000 bail. Gutierrez is being held on $120,000 bail.

“While this was not an easy case for everyone involved, I am confident we have the right people for the right charges,” said LAPD Chief Dominic Choi. “Our investigators have worked tirelessly to gather evidence, interview witnesses and follow every lead to ensure justice is served. To the family and loved ones of Johnny Wactor, we know no legal remedy can ever bring back the person you lost, but we hope today's announcement provides some measure of comfort knowing those responsible will be held accountable for their actions.”