Johnny Wactor’s ex-fiancée speaks out after actor’s death in Los Angeles

(NewsNation) — After “General Hospital” actor Johnny Wactor was shot and killed by three suspects who tried to steal his catalytic converter over the weekend, his former fiancée, Tessa Farrell, released a video expressing her devastation and calling for change.

“The person who did this, if you’re watching, sorry, but you shot the wrong guy,” Farrell said in an Instagram video. “You can get a real job. … It’s tough, but we’re all in this together. You don’t have to steal, you know? Above all, take a life because of this.

Farrell went on to say that it was sad that crime in Los Angeles had reached this point and that legislation was needed to prevent this from happening again.

“These criminals cannot continue to be on the streets, and they cannot continue to be sent away without any repercussions for their actions,” Farrell said.

Local NewsNation affiliate KTLA reports that investigators believe Wactor had ended his bartending shift early Saturday and was walking to his vehicle when he was confronted by three suspects who had jacked up the car, and l One of them opened fire on him. All three wore dark clothes.

Wactor allegedly protected a colleague from gunfire.

Farrell told NewsNation host Ashleigh Banfield that Wactor’s family asked for privacy as the investigation evolved.

“I will say he was a very kind, humble and generous man,” Farrell said on “Banfield.” “I will always remember him as a rising star and his death will be brought to justice.” We will find these killers.

Los Angeles County implemented a zero-bail policy last year, saying cash bail discriminates against minorities and the poor. This policy allows certain suspects accused of non-violent or non-serious crimes to be cited and released when they previously might have been out on bond.

As of Tuesday afternoon, no arrests had been made. Those with information can call the LAPD at 213-996-4142 or, if they wish to remain anonymous, Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477.

Wactor, KTLA wrote, was in 164 episodes of the popular soap opera “General Hospital” from 2020 to 2022 and also appeared in “Westworld” and “Criminal Minds.”

Calling Wactor a “brilliant soul,” Farrell said in his Instagram video that Wactor “loved everyone so much.” “He was so selfless,” she said. “He will always be an integral part of my journey as a human being.”

Los Angeles Crime Statistics

Even though some violent crimes such as murder, rape and aggravated assault have declined in recent months, violent and property crimes continue to increase in Los Angeles County.

In 2023, homicides decreased by 17% compared to 2022, according to the Los Angeles Police Department. However, property crimes were up 3.5% from the previous year and citywide thefts, including retail thefts, were up 16%, KTLA wrote. Additionally, authorities reported 137 flash mob thefts citywide in 2023.

Local NewsNation affiliate KTLA contributed to this report.