Grief as Popular South African DJ Shot Dead in the City of Johannesburg.

DJ Warras was attacked in the afternoon.
DJ Warras was gunned down by a man with dreadlocks in the middle of the day, authorities report.

A prominent South African radio and club DJ has been murdered in the country's largest city Johannesburg, sending shockwaves across a country battling rampant crime.

Warrick Stock, popularly known as DJ Warras, was shot and killed in the downtown area on Tuesday afternoon.

Police said the 40-year-old presenter was approached by three individuals, with one opened fire on him before running away.

The reason behind the shooting has not been established and no suspects have been apprehended have been made, as per the official statement.

The Fatal Incident

Law enforcement said that Stock was targeted as he was departing from a premises in the vicinity of the city center landmark.

He had devoted time at the site overseeing the implementation of security systems, which had been controversially occupied by squatters, it was reported.

"The report indicates the man was approached by three unknown suspects after he parked his car, and they shot at him before escaping on foot," an official report said.

CCTV footage reportedly depicted a individual with dreadlocked hair and wearing what resembled a protective services outfit firing shots on Stock before running away.

The DJ sought to escape after he was hit but fell down on the opposite side of the road.

It was further revealed that Stock had an weapon on his person and nothing was taken during the attack.

Key evidence, like cartridges, were recovered from the scene.

Call for Public Assistance

Police have appealed anyone who saw the event who may have have information to come forward.

"Evidence suggests they walked a long distance after the attack, and officers have been following their trail to establish their destination," stated a police chief.

A Nation in Mourning

His family member, a close relative, expressed the loved ones are reeling to come to terms with the loss.

"I am in shock. I cannot express the pain," she stated.
"We know he was a representative for countless citizens. He addressed issues courageously about issues not many people were ready to tackle. This is a devastating blow."

She urged the public to avoid sharing graphic images from the scene, saying this was an incredibly difficult time, especially for Stock's young family.

His Professional Legacy

Stock was the star of Ngicel' iVisa, a series that aired on a South African TV network.

Apart from his media career, Stock was active in various business ventures, including protective services, supplying VIP protection services and securing high-profile events across South Africa.

He was also understood to participate in property management and was involved in tenant removals.

Official and Public Tributes

His killing has shocked the country and triggered an flood of condolences from his audience, the government and various organizations.

A senior figure remarked he was furious and grief-stricken by Stock's killing.

"He was forthright fearlessly and impartially. He even criticized me and my decisions as a public official. He was a true embodiment of who we ought to be," was his tribute.

A political leader commented the "brazen murder of DJ Warras in broad daylight is a trauma for all South Africans".

A industry leader noted that "Stock was far beyond a face of a reality series. He was a gifted communicator, a true devotee of sound and a kind-hearted individual who brought happiness and vitality to every appearance. His commitment to his craft left an lasting impression."

In a communication, the network he worked for said Stock was known for his charisma, approachability and intelligent commentary, adding that his influence "will be remembered".

The Broader Picture

South Africa, the African economic powerhouse, has one of the world's highest homicide statistics, driven by robberies and organized criminal activity, with some 63 people killed each day in a recent six-month period, based on official statistics.

Anna Davila
Anna Davila

Elena is a seasoned mountaineer and outdoor writer with over 15 years of experience scaling peaks across Europe and Asia.