Former “General Hospital” actor Johnny Wactor was fatally shot in downtown Los Angeles while interrupting thieves early Saturday, according to his agent and CNN affiliate KABC.

The actor, who played Brando Corbin in the hospital soap opera, was shot as he left work early Saturday morning, his mother told KABC.

In a statement to CNN, Wactor’s agent David Shaul described him as a spectacular human being, “not just a talented actor who was committed to his craft but a real moral example to everyone who knew him.”

Shaul said that Wactor represented hard work and tenacity and strove to be the best he could be. “Our time with Johnny was a privilege we would wish on everyone. He would give you the shirt off his back. After over a decade together, he will leave a hole in our hearts forever.” Her son initially thought his car was being towed, and he approached the person to ask, Scarlett Wactor told KABC. Instead, the suspect looked up and opened fire, she added.

The shooting occurred around 3:25 a.m. PT Saturday, Los Angeles Police Department Officer Tony Im told CNN.

I said three men were trying to steal a catalytic converter when the victim interrupted them. One of the suspects pulled out a gun and shot the victim before the men drove off in a vehicle.

The victim was taken to a hospital where he was pronounced dead, I said.

The LAPD did not confirm the victim was Wactor.

According to IMDB, Wactor starred in “General Hospital” as Brando Corbin from 2020 to 2022. Other acting credits include “Criminal Minds” and “Siberia.”