One of the four suspects charged in connection to the shooting death of “General Hospital” actor Johnny Wactor has pleaded guilty, a spokesperson for Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón’s office told ABC News.
Leonel Gutierrez, 18, pleaded guilty Wednesday to charges of attempted robbery and grand theft. He was not alleged to have been the one who actually shot Wactor.
He was released on $120,000 bond, and is expected to be sentenced Nov. 1.
Ahead of sentencing, the court will hear victim impact statements, the district attorney’s office said.
Gutierrez could face up to four years and eight months in prison.
Wactor, 37, was fatally shot “without provocation” in the early morning hours of May 25, after he ended his shift at a bar and was walking to his car, according to police. Police said the suspects had his car “raised up with a floor jack and were in the process of stealing the catalytic converter.”
Actor Johnny Wactor is seen in Old City on Oct. 29, 2023 in Philadelphia.
Gilbert Carrasquillo/GC Images via Getty Images, FILE
Just before he was shot, Wactor had been with a female co-worker, and he immediately stepped in front of her to try to protect her, according to his family and friends.
“They had a mask on and they pulled out a gun,” Wactor’s friend, Colin Flynn, previously told ABC News. “And from what I understand, Johnny literally stood in between himself and his colleague. And the shooter just pulled the trigger and ran away.”
Gutierrez, along with three other suspects, were charged in August in connection to Wactor’s death. Two of the suspects were charged with murder and could face life in prison if convicted.
At a news conference where the charges were announced, Gascón said he was “committed to seeking justice for Mr. Wactor and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.”
“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. “Mr. Wactor’s work and presence touched the lives of many, and our hearts go out to his family, friends and the entire community who mourn this devastating loss.”
All four suspects have “very lengthy criminal records” and were allegedly affiliated with a gang, Los Angeles Police Department Lt. Ryan Rabbett said at the press conference.
In a shocking turn of events, a suspect has admitted guilt in a case related to the death of ‘General Hospital’ actor Johnny Wactor. Wactor, who was known for his role as Brando Corbin on the popular soap opera, tragically passed away in a car accident earlier this year. The suspect, whose identity has not been released to the public, has confessed to their involvement in the incident.
The news of the suspect’s admission of guilt has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and among fans of ‘General Hospital’. Wactor was a beloved member of the cast, and his untimely death left many in mourning. The circumstances surrounding the accident were initially unclear, but with the suspect’s confession, some closure may be found for those who were affected by Wactor’s passing.
While details of the case are still emerging, it is clear that the suspect’s admission of guilt will have far-reaching implications. The legal process will now move forward, and justice will hopefully be served for Wactor and his loved ones. The ‘General Hospital’ community has been deeply affected by this tragedy, and many are eager to see the case resolved.
Wactor’s death serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. His talent and presence on ‘General Hospital’ will be greatly missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of his fans and colleagues. As the case progresses, the focus will now shift to honoring Wactor’s legacy and seeking justice for his untimely passing.
In conclusion, the suspect admitting guilt in the case related to Johnny Wactor’s death has brought some closure to those affected by the tragedy. The legal process will now proceed, and justice will hopefully be served for Wactor and his loved ones. The entertainment industry has lost a talented actor, but his memory will continue to inspire and resonate with fans around the world.
