“General Hospital” actor Johnny Wactor was shot and killed early Saturday morning during what appeared to be an attempted robbery of his parked car. He was 37 years old.
According to a report published Sunday by TMZ, the actor’s mother Scarlett told the outlet he had been out with one of his coworkers in downtown Los Angeles when they saw several people who appeared to be doing something to Wactor’s car. The outlet noted that police had also reported — without mentioning any names — an incident in the vicinity around that same time that involved three suspects who were allegedly after a catalytic converter.
Wactor, according to his mother, did not try to stop the alleged thieves — but they still shot at him as they fled the scene. TMZ reported that paramedics reached the scene around 3 a.m. local time, but that Wactor was pronounced dead upon his arrival at the hospital.
The actor, who appeared in more than 200 episodes of the daytime drama, also appeared on “NCIS,” “Criminal Minds,” and got his start on Lifetime’s “Army Wives.” He leaves behind his mother and two younger brothers: Lance, and Grant.
Fans and friends took to X to share tributes to the young actor, praising him both for his talent and for his humility and kindness.
“When the tears slow down, I am literally sick to my stomach at this news. Johnny was one of those rare young men in this business who was kind, unassuming, humble, and always thought about other people,” Jon Windstorm posted. “A talented young guy who just wanted to share that talent with the world. I wish I had enough love to fill the hole that his loved ones must feel right now, but I know that’s impossible. Johnny will be missed on this plane. For a long time to come. R.I.P.”
#JohnnyWactor When the tears slow down, I am literally sick to my stomach at this news. Johnny was one of those rare young men in this business who was kind, unassuming, humble, and always thought about other people. A talented young guy who just wanted to share that talent with… pic.twitter.com/IQVqvhe3nn
— Jon Lindstrom (@thejonlindstrom) May 26, 2024
“One of my good college friends was shot and killed in LA during a catalytic converter theft. We’re at a point in our society where criminals think it’s okay to murder someone over maybe a few hundred dollars,” Bubba Atkinson added.
One of my good college friends was shot and killed in LA during a catalytic converter theft.
We’re at a point in our society where criminals think it’s okay to murder someone over maybe a few hundred dollars. https://t.co/gzWWQHeIfG
— bubba atkinson (@BubbaAtkinson) May 26, 2024
“Honestly, words can’t begin 2 express the sadness with which 2 convey my feelings towards losing another #GH Alum. The senselessness of this lose is beyond description. Johnny was such a good guy. Really horrible. RIP #JohnnyWactor & much love & comfort to those who loved him,” William DeVry posted.
Honestly, words can’t begin 2 express the sadness with which 2 convey my feelings towards losing another #GH Alum. The senselessness of this lose is beyond description. Johnny was such a good guy. Really horrible. RIP #JohnnyWactor & much love & comfort to those who loved him.
— William deVry (@WilliamdeVry1) May 26, 2024
“Another talented, kind and generous @generalhospital colleague gone too soon. Deepest condolences to the family, friends, colleagues and fans of @WactorTractor #JohnnyWactor #GH,” Kathleen Gati added.
Another talented, kind and generous @generalhospital colleague gone too soon. Deepest condolences to the family, friends, colleagues and fans of @WactorTractor #JohnnyWactor #GH 💔 https://t.co/vVgJ9f2WFI
— Kathleen Gati (@gatitweets) May 26, 2024