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A US soap opera star has been fatally shot during an attempted robbery.
Johnny Wactor, known for his work on General Hospital, was killed in downtown Los Angeles on Saturday about 3am local time when he stumbled across a group of men breaking into his vehicle, according to TMZ.
Wactor’s mother told the outlet her son was with a coworker when they “saw three men messing with Johnny’s car”.
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An incident occurred in the area in which three men allegedly tried to steal a catalytic converter from a vehicle, LA Police reported.
Wactor reportedly did not attempt to stop the men from stealing the item, but was shot when he came across the scene.
He was rushed to hospital, where he died.
The would-be-thieves have not been found, and no descriptions have yet been released by authorities.
The 37-year-old has a long list of acting credits, and has appeared in a number of TV shows including Station 19, Westworld, The OA, NCIS, Criminal Minds, Animal Kingdom and Army Wives.
Wactor’s death has been confirmed by his agent, David Shaul.
The actor was “a spectacular human being”, Shaul told People.
“Not just a talented actor who was committed to his craft but a real moral example to everyone who knew him,” Shaul said.
“Standing for hard work, tenacity and a never give up attitude.
“In the highs and lows of a challenging profession he always kept his chin up and kept striving for the best he could be.
“Our time with Johnny was a privilege we would wish on everyone.
“He would literally give you the shirt off his back.
“After over a decade together, he will leave a hole in our hearts forever.”