“Actor’s loved ones march for justice.”
Johnny Wactor’s loved ones gathered downtown. The “General Hospital” star was killed there three weeks ago. His family and friends continue asking for help finding who took Johnny’s life.
It was a random act of violence that took him from those he cared for. They grieve this loss while wanting answers.
During the march, Johnny’s brother shared stories of the kind man. They asked leaders to work harder to solve the case. No arrests have been made yet in the unsolved month.
Hearts heavy with pain, Johnny’s people marched for the justice their friendly star deserved. Speaking up was their way to honor him until the case was closed.
Tragic Shooting of Johnny Wactor Leaves Community Heartbroken
In the early morning of May 25th, 37-year-old Johnny Wactor and a coworker were leaving their bartender jobs. As Johnny approached his vehicle, he noticed three men had raised his car on a floor jack.
Recognizing that the men were attempting to steal his car’s catalytic converter, Johnny calmly asked them to stop and leave the area. However, without reason, one of the individuals opened fire, fatally shooting Johnny.
Johnny’s friend Anita Joy, who had been leaving work alongside him, recalled the heartbreaking moment.
“Johnny kept his cool as he always did, simply stating that it was his car and asking them to leave. Hands open to his sides in peace. Johnny was between the man who shot him and me…Everything happened in an instant.
I’ve come to describe it as a glass of water that gets tipped over, and you’re scrambling to grab it and save it from spilling out completely, but it just runs through your fingertips and is gone,” she said.
Despite the desperate efforts of Anita and a security guard from their workplace who rushed over, Johnny succumbed to his injuries after being rushed to the hospital. The coroner reported that the talented young actor died from a single gunshot wound to the chest. For those close to Johnny, losing him in such a random act of violence has been unthinkably tragic.
Johnny’s Family and Friends Demand Justice
Johnny’s family and friends wanted the people responsible for his death to be found. It had been over three weeks since Johnny passed away. On June 13th, the people closest to Johnny organized a march in downtown Los Angeles. The march started at the place where Johnny was hurt.
Friends, workmates, and Johnny’s brother Grant all talked to reporters. They asked the city’s leaders, Mayor Karen Bass and Kevin de León, to do more to help the police catch who did this.
Grant had come to Los Angeles from his home in South Carolina. He said the whole family was unfortunate.
“We want something to change…We want it to happen soon,” he said. “We know the police are trying hard to find these people. But we hope the leaders will give them all their needed help.“
The group asked the city leaders to offer $25,000 to anyone who can give information that leads to an arrest. They want the police to catch the people responsible for hurting Johnny.
Remembering a Talented Performer
Johnny’s family and friends wanted to remember him positively. They shared stories about the amazing man he was. Even at 37, Johnny had acted in over 200 episodes of “General Hospital.” He played the character Brando Corbin from 2020 to 2022. Johnny was also in shows like “Westworld”, “NCIS,” “Criminal Minds,” and more.
Micah Parker, one of Johnny’s actor friends, spoke at the event. He became emotional while talking.
“It’s hard to be here…but it’s important because the city leaders need to understand what policies lead to,” he said.
Micah meant that leaders need to see how their decisions impact crime. According to those who knew him, Johnny was brave, kind, and helpful to all. He had an exciting career and life ahead of him.
Parry Shen, Johnny’s co-star at General Hospital, also attended the march. He tweeted that Johnny surrounded himself with good friends. Parry said he wanted to honor Johnny, too. Though life continues, Parry knows he will always think of how Johnny would have liked seeing everyone together.
Friends shared more small memories of Johnny’s smiling face, funny jokes, and dedication to his work. Sadly, his light went out too soon. But the excellent way he treated people lives on in their hearts.
Taking a Stand Against Crime
As the investigation into Johnny’s murder continues, no arrests have been made in identifying the three individuals involved. They were reported fleeing the scene in a dark sedan, all dressed in dark clothing. Beyond seeking justice for Johnny personally, his family and friends have emphasized the need for more excellent safety in the city.
Johnny’s friend and coworker Bryan Barkley, who had been working as security in the area the night of the shooting, highlighted ongoing infrastructure problems.
“You guys probably don’t notice because the sun’s out, but it’s the only street that doesn’t have lights on it. It’s a problem. It could’ve been any one of us,” he stressed.
While catalytic converter theft has been on the rise nationwide, events like this tragic murder demonstrate the dangers such crimes can pose if left unchecked.
By marching together through the streets of downtown LA, Johnny’s loved ones aimed to raise awareness about the need for reform. Councilman Kevin de León condemned this “brutal and senseless act of violence” while advocating for preventative action.
“Taking someone’s life for a piece of metal sends a chilling message. We do not know who these individuals could have harmed or who they may harm in the future if they’re not brought to justice,” he rightfully noted.
Ultimately, those closest to Johnny are uniting to honor his remarkable life, which was cut short, and push for the safety of all in the community going forward.
Though deeply saddened, Johnny Wactor’s family and friends have shown extraordinary strength and passion. Their campaign for justice continues, and they remain dedicated to keeping his story in the spotlight until arrests are made.
In the meantime, Johnny’s incredible talent and kind spirit will live on in memory and inspire others to create positive change. This tragic loss has undeniably impacted many, and the ripple effects of his too-short time on Earth will be felt for years to come.
