Grief as Renowned South African DJ Killed in the Heart of Johannesburg.

Warrick Stock was shot in the middle of the day.
Warrick Stock was shot by a man with dreadlocked hair in broad daylight, police say.

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

Warrick Stock, popularly known as DJ Warras, was attacked in the central business district on a Tuesday afternoon.

Authorities reported the 40-year-old media personality was accosted by three individuals, with one shot at him before running away.

The purpose behind the incident has not been established and no suspects have been apprehended are in custody, police said.

How It Happened

Police said that Stock was targeted as he was exiting a building close to the Carlton Centre.

He had been present for hours at the site supervising the setup of safety equipment, which had been illegally inhabited by squatters, according to reports.

"It is alleged the deceased was approached by three unidentified men after parking his vehicle, and they began shooting at him before fleeing the scene on foot," authorities confirmed.

CCTV footage reportedly depicted a suspect with dreadlocked hair and clad in what looked like a security uniform opening fire on Stock before fleeing.

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

It was further revealed that Stock had an unused firearm and nothing was taken during the assault.

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

Investigation Ongoing

Authorities have requested anyone who saw the event who may have witnessed the attack to assist with the investigation.

"Evidence suggests they traveled on foot after the attack, and investigators have been tracking them to establish their whereabouts," added an official.

Outpouring of Grief

His sister, Nicole Stock, expressed the loved ones are reeling to come to terms with the loss.

"I am devastated. I don't have words," she said.
"Everyone understood he was a champion for numerous individuals. He addressed issues courageously about topics not many people were prepared to speak about. This is a profound tragedy."

She urged the public to avoid sharing disturbing footage from the incident, noting this was an deeply traumatic time, above all for Stock's young family.

A Multifaceted Career

Stock was the host of Ngicel' iVisa, a reality show that was broadcast on a popular local TV network.

Apart from his work in broadcasting, Stock was involved in various commercial activities, including security provision, providing VIP protection services and managing safety for prestigious gatherings across South Africa.

He was also understood to participate in real estate operations and was involved in property reclaimations.

Official and Public Tributes

His murder has shocked the country and triggered an wave of remembrances from his fans, the authorities and various organizations.

A senior figure said he was outraged and heartbroken by Stock's murder.

"He expressed his views boldly and honestly. He even challenged me and my actions as a public official. He was a shining model of who we must aspire to be," he stated.

A public representative said the "audacious attack of DJ Warras in broad daylight is a shock for all South Africans".

A industry leader expressed that "Stock was more than just a TV personality. He was a talented storyteller, a dedicated enthusiast of music and a kind-hearted individual who brought joy and energy to every moment on screen. His dedication to creativity left an lasting impression."

In a statement, the broadcaster he worked for said Stock was known for his charisma, kindness and intelligent commentary, adding that his legacy "will endure".

The Broader Picture

South Africa, the continent's most industrialised nation, has one of the planet's most severe murder rates, fuelled by robberies and gang violence, with some 63 people losing their lives per day according to recent data, according to official statistics.

Maria Jackson
Maria Jackson

A seasoned traveler and tech enthusiast sharing unique perspectives and actionable insights from global explorations.