One of the four suspects charged in connection to the “General Hospital” shooting death, actor Johnny Wactor has pleaded guilty, a spokesperson for Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón’s office told ABC News.
Leonel Gutierrez, 18, pleaded guilty Wednesday to charges of attempted robbery and grand larceny. He was not alleged to have been the one who actually shot Wactor.
He was released on $120,000 bail and is expected to be sentenced on November 1.
Before sentencing, the court will hear victim impact statements, the district attorney’s office said.
Gutierrez could face up to four years and eight months in prison.
Victor, 37, was fatally shot “without provocation” in the early morning hours of May 25, after he finished his shift at a bar and went to his car, according to police. Police said the suspects had their car “raised with a floor jack and were in the process of stealing the catalytic converter.”
Actor Johnny Wactor is seen in Old City on October 29, 2023 in Philadelphia.
Gilbert Carrasquillo/GC Images via Getty Images, FILE
Shortly before he was shot, Wactor had been with a female co-worker, and he immediately stepped in front of her to try to protect her, according to his family and friends.
“They had a mask on and they pulled out a gun,” Wactor’s friend, Colin Flynn, previously told ABC News. “And from what I understand, Johnny was literally standing between himself and his colleague. And the shooter just pulled the trigger and ran away.”
Gutierrez, along with three other suspects, were charged in August in connection with Wactor’s death. Two of the suspects were charged with murder and face life in prison if convicted.
At a press conference announcing the charges, Gascón said he was “committed to seeking justice for Mr. Wactor and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.”
“The loss of this talented young actor, who was in the prime of his life and had so much to offer the world, is deeply felt by all of us,” Gascón said. “Mr. Wactor’s work and presence touched the lives of many, and our hearts go out to his family, friends and the entire community as they mourn this devastating loss.”
All four suspects have “very lengthy criminal records” and are alleged to be affiliated with a gang, Los Angeles Police Department Lt. Ryan Rabbett said at the news conference.