Two men accused of murdering former “General Hospital” actor Johnny Wactor pleaded not guilty in a Los Angeles court on Thursday. Robert Barceleau and Sergio Estrada, both 18 years old, entered their pleas through their attorneys. They are facing charges of murder, grand theft, and attempted robbery. Another defendant, Frank Olano, 22 years old, who is charged with being an accessory after the fact, also pleaded not guilty. Leonel Gutierrez is expected to enter a plea next month for charges of grand theft and attempted robbery but not for killing Wactor.
The LA County Public Defender’s Office was contacted for comment on behalf of the defendants’ attorneys but did not respond immediately.
Wactor was fatally shot when he interrupted three thieves who were stealing the catalytic converter from his car on May 25. According to authorities, the 37-year-old had just finished work at a rooftop bar in downtown LA and noticed that his car was being tampered with by three individuals. Without any provocation, one of them fired at him and tragically killed him.
Following an extensive investigation that involved seeking assistance from the public, all four suspects were arrested on August 15 and officially charged on August 19.
Barceleau faces additional charges including special circumstances such as murder during an attempted robbery and personal use of a firearm. If convicted, these charges could result in a life sentence without parole. Estrada’s charges carry a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.