Tragic Loss: Former 'General Hospital' Actor Johnny Wactor Gunned Down in Attempted Car Theft Intervention

The former soap opera star and aspiring stand-up comedian was fatally shot in downtown Los Angeles on Saturday night while trying to stop a thief from stealing a catalytic converter.

Former "General Hospital" actor Johnny Wactor was tragically killed in downtown Los Angeles on Saturday night after intervening in a catalytic converter theft. The aspiring stand-up comedian was only 33 years old.

According to Wactor's mother, Donna DeRosa Wactor, her son was fatally shot in the chest while trying to stop a thief from stealing the part from a car in the 400 block of South San Pedro Street. Witnesses reported hearing gunshots and seeing Wactor fall to the ground.

Emergency personnel rushed to the scene, but Wactor was pronounced dead at the hospital. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) is currently investigating the incident and has not yet released any suspect information.

Wactor, a native of Jacksonville, Florida, played the role of Brando Corbin on "General Hospital" from 2020 to 2022. He also had guest starring roles in several other television shows, including "NCIS," "Criminal Minds: Beyond Borders," and "Days of Our Lives."

In addition to his acting career, Wactor was an aspiring stand-up comedian. He had performed at various venues in Los Angeles, including The Laugh Factory and The Improv. Friends and colleagues described him as a talented performer with a bright future in comedy.

Wactor's death has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and his hometown of Jacksonville. His former "General Hospital" co-stars have expressed their condolences and remembered him as a kind and generous person.

"Johnny was a wonderful actor, a great friend, and a loving son," said Maurice Benard, who plays Sonny Corinthos on "General Hospital." "He will be deeply missed by all who knew him."

Jacksonville Mayor Lenny Curry also issued a statement, saying, "Our hearts break for the loss of Johnny Wactor. He was a young man with so much potential and a bright future. Our community mourns his tragic passing."

Wactor's mother has set up a GoFundMe page to help cover the costs of his funeral expenses. The page has already raised over $80,000, demonstrating the love and support for Wactor and his family during this difficult time.

The LAPD is urging anyone with information about Wactor's killing to contact the department's Central Bureau of Investigation at 213-996-1400.