In downtown Los Angeles, the family and friends of Johnny Wactor, who was known for his role in "General Hospital," marched in a poignant plea for justice following his tragic death. Wactor was fatally shot on May 25 by individuals attempting to steal the catalytic converter from his car after leaving his bartending shift at the Level 8 bar/restaurant. As reported by KTLA 5, the gathering began near the intersection of Hope and Pico, close to the crime scene, before moving toward Los Angeles City Hall.
The marchers, steadfast in their resolve, demanded not only that the perpetrators be brought to justice but also that city leaders address the spike in violent street acts. Johnny's brother, Grant Wistor expressed the collective sentiment, "The message is pretty obvious...they want safe streets and justice," in a statement obtained by KTLA. While Grant came from Charleston, South Carolina, he acknowledged the deep roots his brother had established in Los Angeles, which was echoed by other marchers' calls for a safer city for the community Johnny cherished.
The violence that ended Wactor's life seems to have stemmed from a citywide issue with catalytic converter thefts. Catalytic converters are targeted for the precious metals they contain, a fact that might have contributed to the desperation and recklessness of the theft turned homicide. As per NBC Los Angeles, the Wactor family is urging local officials to take legislative and municipal actions that could prevent future tragedies and perhaps generate leads in Johnny's case.
Witnesses to the crime, including Wactor's co-worker Anita Joy, provided a harrowing account of his last moments. As stated by NBC Los Angeles, "Johnny kept his cool as he always did, simply stating that it was his car and for them to leave, hands open to his sides in peace. Johnny was between me and the man who shot him -- as I heard the shot ring into the night, he forcefully tumbled back into my arms and as I grabbed for him, I shouted, 'Hunny you ok?!' And he only responded, 'Nope! Shot!'" Joy recounted in an Instagram post subsequently quoted by multiple outlets. Despite a security guard's rapid response and the initiation of emergency protocols, Wactor's gunshot wound to the chest proved fatal, as confirmed by a coroner's report.
The suspects, who fled in a dark sedan while wearing all-dark clothing, remain at large. David Shaul, Wactor's agent, paid homage to his character and the impact he had on those around him. "Our time with Johnny was a privilege we would wish on everyone," he said according to FOX LA. To support Wactor's family, a fundraiser has been created while authorities continue to appeal to the public. Anyone with information about the suspects is urged to contact the LAPD's Central Station or Crime Stoppers, as anonymity is an option for tipsters.
