'General Hospital' star Johnny Wactor’s cause of death revealed

'General Hospital' actor Johnny Wactor tragically died from a gunshot wound to the chest in an attempted catalytic converter theft, the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner-Coroner confirmed.

The incident occurred early in the morning on May 25th, when Wactor and a female co-worker were leaving their bartending shift.

Wactor's brother, Grant, shared with PEOPLE that they noticed Wactor's car was lifted and initially assumed it was being towed. Upon realizing it was being targeted by thieves, Wactor bravely stepped in front of his co-worker to shield her, raising his hands in a non-confrontational manner. Despite his efforts, he was shot and later pronounced dead at a local hospital.

The assailants, surprised by Wactor and his colleague, fled the scene after the shooting. Grant described the perpetrators as "cowards with guns in their hands," emphasizing his brother's selfless act of protection.

Wactor was well-known for his role as Brando Corbin on 'General Hospital' and had a successful career appearing in various TV shows and films. A GoFundMe page has been established to support his family with funeral and travel expenses.