Grief as Popular South African DJ Gunned Down in Johannesburg.

Warrick Stock was attacked in the middle of the day.
Warrick Stock was gunned down by a suspect with dreadlocked hair in the middle of the day, authorities report.

A popular South African radio and club DJ has been fatally gunned down in the country's largest city Johannesburg, causing national outrage across a nation grappling with persistent crime.

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

Authorities reported the forty-year-old media personality was approached by three suspects, with one began shooting at him before running away.

The motive behind the shooting is unknown and no suspects have been apprehended have been made, police said.

The Fatal Incident

Police revealed that Stock was attacked as he was exiting a location in the vicinity of the city center landmark.

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

"Authorities believe the man was approached by three unknown suspects after parking his vehicle, and they shot at him before fleeing the scene on foot," authorities stated.

Security camera video reportedly depicted a suspect with dreadlocked hair and clad in what appeared to be a guard's attire firing shots on Stock before fleeing.

The DJ tried to run away after he was wounded but succumbed to his injuries a short distance away.

It was further revealed that Stock had an weapon on his person and nothing was taken during the assault.

Crucial forensic evidence, like cartridges, were found at the crime scene.

Call for Public Assistance

Police have appealed members of the public who may have have information to contact them.

"Evidence suggests they walked a long distance after the shooting, and police have been following their trail to find their location," added an official.

Family and Public Reaction

His sister, a close relative, said the family was struggling to understand the tragedy.

"I am devastated. I am shattered," she stated.
"Everyone understood he was a voice for many people. He spoke out bravely about topics not many people were willing to tackle. This is a devastating blow."

She appealed to the citizens to avoid sharing graphic images from the scene, noting this was an extremely painful time, above all for Stock's children.

Life Beyond the Decks

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

In addition to his work in broadcasting, Stock was active in various commercial activities, including private security, offering elite guarding services and managing safety for prestigious gatherings across South Africa.

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

Official and Public Tributes

His murder has sent the nation reeling and triggered an flood of condolences from his fans, the authorities and political parties.

A government minister said he was outraged and heartbroken by Stock's killing.

"He was forthright boldly and honestly. He even challenged me and my actions as a minister. He was a true embodiment of who we should be," the minister added.

A party figurehead commented the "brazen murder of DJ Warras in broad daylight is a tragedy for all South Africans".

A industry leader noted that "DJ Warras was far beyond a TV personality. He was a talented storyteller, a passionate music lover and a warm soul who brought happiness and vitality to every appearance. His dedication to creativity left an indefinable mark."

In a statement, the broadcaster he worked for said Stock was known for his magnetism, warmth and sharp wit, adding that his legacy "will be remembered".

The Broader Picture

South Africa, the region's leading economy, has one of the planet's most severe homicide statistics, exacerbated by property crime and syndicate wars, with some 63 people murdered daily according to recent data, as per police data.

William Berger
William Berger

A passionate gamer and content creator with years of experience in competitive gaming and strategy development.