Shock as Beloved South African DJ Killed in the Heart of Johannesburg.

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

A prominent South African radio and club DJ has been shot dead in the metropolis of Johannesburg, sending shockwaves across a nation grappling with persistent crime.

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

Authorities reported the forty-year-old media personality was confronted by three suspects, with one opened fire on him before escaping on foot.

The purpose of the attack is unknown and no one has been arrested are in custody, according to authorities.

How It Happened

Authorities revealed that Stock was attacked as he was departing from a premises near the Carlton Centre.

He had devoted time at the building supervising the implementation of safety equipment, which had been controversially occupied by unknown people, as per local media.

"It is alleged the victim was confronted by three unknown suspects after parking his vehicle, and they shot at him before running from the location on foot," authorities said.

Security camera video showed a man with dreadlocks and wearing what looked like a protective services outfit opening fire on Stock before making his escape.

The DJ attempted to flee after he was wounded but fell down across the street.

It was further revealed that Stock had an gun that was not fired and nothing was taken during the assault.

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

Call for Public Assistance

Officials are asking members of the public who may have witnessed the attack to assist with the investigation.

"Our information indicates they traveled on foot after the shooting, and investigators have been following their trail to find their whereabouts," added an official.

Outpouring of Grief

His sister, Nicole Stock, stated the relatives are devastated to process his death.

"I am devastated. I cannot express the pain," she stated.
"We know he was a champion for numerous individuals. He addressed issues courageously about topics not many people were willing to discuss. This is a profound tragedy."

She requested the community to refrain from sharing graphic images from the incident, explaining this was an extremely painful time, especially for Stock's young family.

A Multifaceted Career

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

In addition to his work in broadcasting, Stock was involved in various commercial activities, including protective services, supplying elite guarding services and protecting high-profile events across South Africa.

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

National Shock

His murder has sent the nation reeling and triggered an outpouring of tributes from his followers, the government and political parties.

A government minister commented he was furious and grief-stricken by Stock's untimely death.

"He spoke his truth boldly and honestly. He even criticized me and my decisions as a public official. He was a shining model of who we should be," was his tribute.

A political leader stated the "audacious attack of DJ Warras in broad daylight is a tragedy for all South Africans".

A media executive said that "Stock was more than just a TV personality. He was a gifted communicator, a dedicated enthusiast of music and a warm soul who brought happiness and vitality to every appearance. His artistic passion left an indefinable mark."

In a communication, the broadcaster he worked for affirmed Stock was known for his presence, kindness 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 globally elevated homicide statistics, driven by robberies and gang violence, with some over sixty individuals killed each day according to recent data, based on government figures.

Kristen Harris
Kristen Harris

A tech journalist with over a decade of experience covering AI and emerging technologies, passionate about demystifying complex innovations.