Two individuals, Robert Barceleau and Sergio Estrada, both 18 years old, have pleaded not guilty to charges of murder, grand theft, and attempted robbery in connection with the killing of former “General Hospital” actor Johnny Wactor at a Los Angeles court. A third defendant, Frank Olano, 22, who is charged with being an accessory after the fact, also pleaded not guilty. Another defendant, Leonel Gutierrez, who is facing charges of grand theft and attempted robbery but not murder, is expected to enter a plea next month.
The incident occurred on May 25 when Wactor was shot and killed as he interrupted three thieves stealing the catalytic converter from his car. The 37-year-old was leaving work at a downtown LA rooftop bar when he encountered the thieves who were tampering with his vehicle. Without any provocation, one of the thieves shot him, resulting in his death. After an extensive investigation, which involved seeking assistance from the public, all four suspects were apprehended on August 15 and officially charged on August 19.
Robert Barceleau is facing charges with special circumstances such as murder during an attempted robbery and personal use of a firearm, which could potentially lead to a sentence of life imprisonment without the possibility of parole if convicted. On the other hand, Sergio Estrada’s charges carry a maximum sentence of life in prison.
Efforts to seek comments from the attorneys representing the individuals charged were not immediately successful, as emails sent to the LA County Public Defender’s Office were left unanswered.
