(Los Angeles) Two 18-year-old men have been charged with murder in the killing of former series star General Hospital Johnny Wactor.
Robert Barceleau and Sergio Estrada were both charged Monday in Los Angeles County Superior Court, District Attorney George Gascón said at a news conference.
“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 felt by all of us,” Gascón said.
The men and two co-defendants, arrested Thursday, were scheduled to be arraigned Monday afternoon. It was unclear whether any of them have hired an attorney yet. An email to the county public defender’s office seeking comment on the case was not immediately answered.
Johnny Wactor was shot and killed when he interrupted three thieves who were stealing the catalytic converter from his car on May 25. Police said the 37-year-old had left work at a downtown Los Angeles bar with a co-worker when he saw three men jacking up his car. Authorities said one of them shot and killed him without provocation.
Mr. Barceleau and Mr. Estrada were also both charged with robbery and attempted robbery.
The charges against Mr. Barceleau include special circumstances, including murder during an attempted robbery and personal use of a firearm, which, if convicted, could carry a sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole. The charges against Mr. Estrada carry a maximum sentence of life in prison.
A third man who authorities said was with them, Leonel Gutierrez, was charged with robbery and attempted robbery. A fourth, Frank Olano, was charged with accessory after the fact.
Mr. Wactor’s death has become a rallying point for some city residents who are calling for a tougher approach to fighting crime.
A group of family and friends calling themselves Justice for Johnny held a rally last week to demand a more urgent investigation, and another Monday morning to demand aggressive prosecution.
PHOTO DAMIAN DOVARGANES, ASSOCIATED PRESS
Support group calls for aggressive prosecution of alleged killers.
Police and public officials said that is exactly what is happening.
Los Angeles Police Department Acting Chief Dominic Choi said at Monday’s news conference that the investigation was a “continuous and relentless pursuit” of a “very difficult case.”
Mayor Karen Bass said in a statement that “we must continue to take strong action to make our city safer.”
Mr. Barceleau was held without bail and Mr. Estrada posted bail of just over $1 million.