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

Warrick Stock was shot in the middle of the day.
DJ Warras was shot by a suspect with dreadlocked hair in the middle of the day, police say.

A prominent South African radio and club DJ has been fatally gunned down in the country's largest city Johannesburg, sending shockwaves across a country struggling with rampant crime.

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

Police said the forty-year-old entertainer was approached by three suspects, with one shot at him before escaping on foot.

The motive of the attack is unknown and no suspects have been apprehended have taken place, as per the official statement.

The Fatal Incident

Police indicated that Stock was targeted as he was exiting a building near the city center landmark.

He had devoted time at the site managing the setup of safety equipment, which had been reportedly taken over by unidentified individuals, according to reports.

"Authorities believe the victim was confronted by three unidentified men after parking his vehicle, and they opened fire at him before running from the location on foot," authorities confirmed.

Surveillance tape showed a man with dreadlocked hair and dressed in what resembled a security uniform opening fire on Stock before making his escape.

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

Officials noted that Stock had an gun that was not fired and it was not a robbery during the incident.

Important clues, like cartridges, were recovered from the scene.

Appeal for Witnesses

Officials are asking anyone who saw the event who may have seen the suspects to come forward.

"Evidence suggests they walked a long distance after the attack, and investigators have been following their trail to establish their location," remarked an authority figure.

A Nation in Mourning

His sister, Nicole Stock, expressed the relatives are devastated to understand the tragedy.

"I am devastated. I cannot express the pain," she said.
"It is clear he was a champion for numerous individuals. He spoke out bravely about subjects not many people were ready to discuss. This is a tremendous loss."

She requested the community to not sharing graphic images from the incident, saying this was an extremely painful time, particularly for Stock's children.

Life Beyond the Decks

Stock was the star of Ngicel' iVisa, a series that premiered on a South African TV network.

Apart from his media career, Stock was involved in various commercial activities, including protective services, providing elite guarding services and managing safety for high-profile events across South Africa.

He was also reportedly involved in building administration and participated in tenant removals.

Official and Public Tributes

His death has caused national trauma and prompted an flood of condolences from his followers, the government and political parties.

A senior figure commented he was furious and grief-stricken by Stock's killing.

"He was forthright boldly and honestly. He even spoke up against me and my actions as a minister. He was a shining model of who we ought to be," he stated.

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

A industry leader expressed that "DJ Warras was more than just a face of a reality series. He was a talented storyteller, a dedicated enthusiast of music and a kind-hearted individual who brought happiness and vitality to every appearance. His artistic passion left an profound impact."

In a communication, the network he worked for affirmed Stock was known for his presence, approachability and intelligent commentary, adding that his memory "will live on".

A National Challenge

South Africa, the region's leading economy, has one of the planet's most severe murder rates, fuelled by property crime and organized criminal activity, with some 63 people losing their lives per day according to recent data, according to police data.

Christopher Jackson
Christopher Jackson

A tech journalist and digital strategist with over a decade of experience covering emerging technologies and their impact on business and society.