Outrage as Beloved South African DJ Gunned Down in the Heart of Johannesburg.

Warrick Stock was shot in the middle of the day.
DJ Warras was gunned down by a suspect with dreadlocks in broad daylight, police say.

A popular South African radio and club DJ has been fatally gunned down in the country's largest city Johannesburg, sending shockwaves across a nation battling entrenched crime.

Warrick Stock, widely recognized as DJ Warras, was attacked in the central business district on the afternoon of Tuesday.

Authorities reported the forty-year-old entertainer was confronted by three suspects, with one shot at him before running away.

The purpose of the incident has not been established and no arrests are in custody, as per the official statement.

The Fatal Incident

Law enforcement said that Stock was targeted as he was exiting a building near the Carlton Centre.

He had been present for hours at the building managing the installation of safety equipment, which had been controversially occupied by unidentified individuals, it was reported.

"It is alleged the man was approached by three unknown suspects after parking his vehicle, and they began shooting at him before fleeing the scene on foot," an official report said.

Security camera video reportedly depicted a suspect with dreadlocks and wearing what appeared to be a guard's attire opening fire on Stock before making his escape.

The DJ attempted to flee after he was wounded but succumbed to his injuries across the street.

Police added that Stock had an weapon on his person and it was not a robbery during the attack.

Key evidence, like spent shells, were recovered from the crime scene.

Appeal for Witnesses

Authorities have requested eyewitnesses who may have have information to come forward.

"We know they traveled on foot after the attack, and police have been following their trail to find their whereabouts," stated a police chief.

Family and Public Reaction

His family member, Nicole Stock, said the loved ones are reeling to process his death.

"I am devastated. I cannot express the pain," she said.
"We know he was a representative for countless citizens. He was a fearless commentator about topics not many people were ready to speak about. This is a tremendous loss."

She urged the community to not sharing disturbing footage from the scene, explaining this was an incredibly difficult time, particularly for Stock's three sons.

A Multifaceted Career

Stock was the presenter of Ngicel' iVisa, a reality show that aired on a South African broadcasting platform.

In addition to his role as a presenter, Stock was engaged in various business ventures, including private security, supplying high-level security services and protecting major functions across South Africa.

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

Official and Public Tributes

His death has sent the nation reeling and prompted an wave of remembrances from his audience, the authorities and various organizations.

A cabinet official said he was angry and saddened by Stock's untimely death.

"He expressed his views boldly and honestly. He even spoke up against me and my decisions as a public official. He was a shining model of who we ought to be," was his tribute.

A party figurehead said the "audacious attack of DJ Warras in the middle of the day is a shock for all South Africans".

A industry leader expressed that "DJ Warras was far beyond a TV personality. He was a skilled narrator, a true devotee of sound and a warm soul who brought happiness and vitality to every performance. His artistic passion left an indefinable mark."

In a statement, the channel he worked for declared Stock was known for his magnetism, kindness and intelligent commentary, adding that his legacy "will be remembered".

A National Challenge

South Africa, the region's leading economy, has one of the world's highest murder rates, driven by robberies and syndicate wars, with some dozens of citizens losing their lives per day in a recent six-month period, according to government figures.

Tracey Jackson
Tracey Jackson

A life coach and writer passionate about helping others navigate their journeys to success and well-being.