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

The media personality was attacked in the middle of the day.
DJ Warras was gunned down by a individual with dreadlocks in the middle of the day, officials state.

A renowned South African radio and club DJ has been murdered in the metropolis of Johannesburg, causing national outrage across a nation struggling with entrenched crime.

Warrick Stock, popularly known as DJ Warras, was gunned down in the city centre on the afternoon of Tuesday.

Police said the 40-year-old presenter was accosted by a trio of assailants, one of whom shot at him before running away.

The purpose of the shooting is unknown and no one has been arrested have been made, police said.

Details of the Attack

Law enforcement indicated that Stock was attacked as he was exiting a location close to the city center landmark.

He had spent several hours at the building managing the implementation of safety equipment, which had been controversially occupied by squatters, as per local media.

"The report indicates the deceased was confronted by three unknown suspects after he parked his car, and they opened fire at him before running from the location on foot," authorities said.

CCTV footage reportedly depicted a individual with dreadlocked hair and dressed in what resembled a security uniform shooting on Stock before fleeing.

The DJ tried to run away after he was wounded but succumbed to his injuries across the street.

Police added that Stock had an unused firearm and it was not a robbery during the incident.

Key evidence, like cartridges, were found at the location.

Appeal for Witnesses

Officials are asking anyone who saw the event who may have have information to contact them.

"We know they traveled on foot after the attack, and police have been following their trail to determine their whereabouts," added an official.

Family and Public Reaction

His sister, a close relative, said the loved ones are reeling to process his death.

"I am devastated. I don't have words," she said.
"Everyone understood he was a voice for many people. He addressed issues courageously about issues not many people were prepared to tackle. This is a tremendous loss."

She requested the community to refrain from sharing disturbing footage from the incident, noting this was an extremely painful time, especially for Stock's three sons.

A Multifaceted Career

Stock was the star of Ngicel' iVisa, a series that was broadcast on a popular local digital satellite entertainment channel.

In addition to his work in broadcasting, Stock was involved in various entrepreneurial pursuits, including protective services, offering VIP protection services and managing safety for high-profile events across South Africa.

He was also said to be engaged in building administration and was involved in building evictions.

National Shock

His killing has caused national trauma and triggered an wave of remembrances from his audience, the government and political parties.

A government minister commented he was angry and saddened by Stock's untimely death.

"He spoke his truth fearlessly and impartially. He even spoke up against me and my decisions as a minister. He was a shining model of who we must aspire to be," he stated.

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

A media executive expressed that "Stock was far beyond a TV personality. He was a talented storyteller, a true devotee of sound and a kind-hearted individual who brought excitement and dynamism to every performance. His artistic passion left an profound impact."

In a release, the broadcaster he worked for declared Stock was known for his magnetism, warmth and quick humor, adding that his influence "will live on".

Context of Crime

South Africa, the continent's most industrialised nation, has one of the planet's most severe homicide statistics, exacerbated by property crime and gang violence, with some 63 people murdered daily in a recent six-month period, based on official statistics.

Nicole Robertson
Nicole Robertson

A seasoned gaming analyst with over a decade of experience in casino reviews and strategy development.