WEST HOLLYWOOD, Calif. (KABC) – Dozens of people gathered at North Hollywood Park on Saturday for a march called “One Mile for Johnny” to raise awareness of the ongoing search for suspects in the murder of former “General Hospital” actor Johnny Wactor.
Wactor was shot and killed last month as he left his shift as a bartender in downtown Los Angeles. LAPD investigators said three men were trying to steal his catalytic converter when Wactor approached them.
Three suspects fled in a vehicle and Wactor died shortly thereafter at a local hospital.
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“I’m grateful that I was there for him and that he wasn’t alone after we went through that together,” said Anita Joy. “That was the only peaceful thing for his mother and me when we went for a walk.”
“I was a fan of his,” said Zeke Hindle. “It’s just so sad. He didn’t want to be a hero, but he was a hero trying to save a friend’s life… just a very sad story… hits people hard.”
The “Mile For Johnny” march also drew attention to the increasing crime in the city.
“People don’t care about other people,” said James Mottram. “All they care about is the almighty dollar, and Johnny’s death because of this (strong expression) Trying to steal his catalyst just proves that they only care about money.”
Wactor’s mother attended Saturday’s event, thanking the crowd for their support and calling them to action on her son’s behalf.
Wactor’s friends and family say it’s time for city leaders to acknowledge the growing crime problem. They say they won’t let his death be in vain and don’t want to see more innocent people lose their lives.
“When we come together, it brings attention to the top,” said Micah Parker, an actor and friend of Wactor. “It’s a movement to make a statement, to celebrate him and to demand justice for Johnny.”
Wactor portrayed Brando Corbin on “General Hospital” from 2020 to 2022. He has also appeared in numerous films and television series, including “Station 19,” “NCIS,” “Westworld,” and the video game “Call of Duty: Vanguard.”
Anyone with information about his murder is asked to call LAPD dispatch at 213-486-6606. You can also submit an anonymous tip by calling Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or visiting lacrimestoppers.org.
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