Shock as Beloved South African DJ Gunned Down in the City of Johannesburg.

Warrick Stock was shot in the afternoon.
DJ Warras was shot by a man with dreadlocked hair in broad daylight, authorities report.

A popular South African media personality and entertainer has been murdered in the metropolis of Johannesburg, causing national outrage across a nation struggling with persistent crime.

Warrick Stock, who went by the name DJ Warras, was attacked in the city centre on Tuesday afternoon.

Officials stated the forty-year-old presenter was confronted by a trio of assailants, one of whom shot at him before escaping on foot.

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

The Fatal Incident

Authorities said that Stock was targeted as he was leaving a premises close to the Carlton Centre.

He had devoted time at the site overseeing the installation of security systems, which had been reportedly taken over by squatters, as per local media.

"It is alleged the deceased was confronted by three unknown suspects after he parked his car, and they shot at him before running from the location on foot," authorities confirmed.

Surveillance tape reportedly captured a individual with dreadlocked hair and wearing what appeared to be a security uniform opening fire on Stock before making his escape.

The DJ tried to run away after he was shot but collapsed across the street.

Police added that Stock had an unused firearm and nothing was taken during the assault.

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

Appeal for Witnesses

Officials are asking members of the public who may have have information to contact them.

"We know they traveled on foot after the attack, and police have been tracking them to determine their location," added an official.

A Nation in Mourning

His family member, a close relative, said the relatives are devastated to understand the tragedy.

"Words fail me. I am shattered," were her words.
"It is clear he was a champion for numerous individuals. He addressed issues courageously about issues not many people were prepared to tackle. This is a tremendous loss."

She urged the community to refrain from sharing disturbing footage from the incident, saying this was an incredibly difficult time, particularly for Stock's children.

A Multifaceted Career

Stock was the host of Ngicel' iVisa, a reality show that premiered on a South African TV network.

In addition to his media career, Stock was engaged in various entrepreneurial pursuits, including protective services, supplying elite guarding services and managing safety for high-profile events across South Africa.

He was also understood to participate in building administration and participated in tenant removals.

National Shock

His murder has sent the nation reeling and led to an flood of condolences from his followers, the government and political parties.

A cabinet official commented he was furious and grief-stricken by Stock's killing.

"He was forthright boldly and honestly. He even criticized me and my actions as a public official. He was a shining model of who we must aspire to be," the minister added.

A party figurehead commented the "shocking killing of DJ Warras in broad daylight is a trauma for all South Africans".

A industry leader said that "Stock was far beyond a face of a reality series. He was a talented storyteller, a passionate music lover and a warm soul who brought joy and energy to every moment on screen. His dedication to creativity left an indefinable mark."

In a statement, the broadcaster he worked for declared Stock was known for his presence, kindness and sharp wit, adding that his memory "will endure".

A National Challenge

South Africa, the region's leading economy, has one of the world's highest homicide statistics, fuelled by robberies and gang violence, with some over sixty individuals killed each day in a recent six-month period, according to official statistics.

Erica Meyer
Erica Meyer

A tech journalist based in Stockholm, covering Nordic startups and digital transformation with over a decade of experience.