Tragic Loss: "General Hospital" Alum Johnny Wactor Killed in Los Angeles

Johnny Wactor, a beloved actor known for his role on "General Hospital," has been tragically shot and killed in downtown Los Angeles, leaving behind a heartbroken family and a grieving entertainment community.

The world of entertainment has been plunged into mourning with the untimely passing of Johnny Wactor, a talented actor who left an indelible mark on the hearts of his fans and colleagues. Wactor, best known for his portrayal of Brando Corbin on the long-running soap opera "General Hospital," was tragically shot and killed in downtown Los Angeles in the early hours of Saturday morning.

Confirming the devastating news, Wactor's mother, Scarlett, spoke exclusively to Fox News Digital, recounting the horrific details surrounding her son's death. According to Scarlett, Wactor and a co-worker were asked to stay late at a rooftop bar where he was employed as a bartender to assist with cleaning.

As they made their way to their cars around 3:30 a.m., they noticed that Wactor's vehicle appeared to be tampered with, prompting him to cautiously approach the scene. However, before he could react, a masked individual emerged from the darkness and opened fire.

"Johnny stepped in front of his co-worker and raised his hands, and that's when the person shot him," a distraught Scarlett revealed. "In my mind, if he had been there two minutes earlier or later, he would still be alive."

Tragically, Wactor's workplace did not provide designated parking for employees, leaving him vulnerable to such a heinous act. Scarlett expressed her anguish, lamenting the senseless loss of her son's life.

According to TMZ, which first reported the incident, authorities have yet to confirm Wactor's identity officially. However, the description of the alleged incident closely aligns with a report of three suspects attempting to steal a catalytic converter.

Wactor's life was tragically cut short as he confronted individuals seeking to steal the catalytic converter from his car, a growing trend in vehicle theft.

Before finding his breakout role on "General Hospital," Wactor had appeared in various television shows, including "Army Wives," "Animal Kingdom," "Criminal Minds," and "Westworld." His portrayal of Brando Corbin for 164 episodes from 2020 to 2022 garnered him critical acclaim and a loyal following.

Despite his success in the entertainment industry, Wactor remained grounded and dedicated to his loved ones. His mother described him as a "great human being" who lived life to the fullest, always chasing his dreams with optimism and positivity.

As authorities continue their investigation, Wactor's family prepares to bring his body back to South Carolina for funeral services. Scarlett expressed her unwavering faith in seeing her son again one day but acknowledged the immense void his absence will leave in her life.

"They took a great human being," Scarlett said. "It is leaving a very large hole in me and his brother's lives. We just buried my husband, their dad, four years ago. He was very loved by his friends, his families."

In the wake of this tragedy, Wactor's friends, colleagues, and fans have poured out their condolences and expressed their admiration for the talented actor whose life was taken too soon. The entertainment community has lost a bright star, and his memory will continue to inspire and entertain for years to come.