Shock as Popular South African DJ Gunned Down in Johannesburg.

Warrick Stock was attacked in the middle of the day.
Warrick Stock was shot by a man with dreadlocks in the middle of the day, police say.

A prominent South African radio and club DJ has been shot dead in the nation's economic hub Johannesburg, causing national outrage across a country grappling with persistent crime.

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

Police said the 40-year-old entertainer was accosted by three individuals, one of whom shot at him before fleeing on foot.

The reason of the incident has not been established and no suspects have been apprehended have been made, as per the official statement.

Details of the Attack

Law enforcement revealed that Stock was attacked as he was leaving a building in the vicinity of the city center landmark.

He had devoted time at the site supervising the implementation of safety equipment, which had been controversially occupied by unidentified individuals, according to reports.

"The report indicates the deceased was approached by three unknown suspects after parking his vehicle, and they opened fire at him before escaping on foot," a police statement said.

Security camera video reportedly captured a individual with dreadlocks and clad in what appeared to be a security uniform opening fire on Stock before making his escape.

The DJ tried to run away after he was shot but fell down a short distance away.

Officials noted that Stock had an unused firearm and it was not a robbery during the assault.

Important clues, like spent shells, were found at the scene.

Call for Public Assistance

Officials are asking eyewitnesses who may have witnessed the attack to come forward.

"Our information indicates they walked a long distance after the attack, and police have been attempting to locate them to find their whereabouts," remarked an authority figure.

A Nation in Mourning

His sister, a close relative, said the relatives are devastated to come to terms with the loss.

"I am devastated. I am shattered," she stated.
"It is clear he was a champion for numerous individuals. He addressed issues courageously about issues not many people were prepared to discuss. This is a profound tragedy."

She urged the public to avoid sharing disturbing footage from the incident, noting this was an extremely painful time, especially for Stock's three sons.

His Professional Legacy

Stock was the presenter of Ngicel' iVisa, a series that aired on a popular local TV network.

Apart from his role as a presenter, Stock was involved in various business ventures, including security provision, providing high-level security services and managing safety for major functions across South Africa.

He was also reportedly involved in real estate operations and was involved in tenant removals.

National Shock

His death has shocked the country and led to an wave of remembrances from his followers, the authorities and political parties.

A government minister commented he was angry and saddened by Stock's killing.

"He was forthright fearlessly and impartially. He even spoke up against me and my decisions as a minister. He was a pure example of who we must aspire to be," he stated.

A public representative commented the "brazen murder of DJ Warras in the middle of the day is a tragedy for all South Africans".

A industry leader said that "DJ Warras was not merely a face of a reality series. He was a skilled narrator, a dedicated enthusiast of music and a warm soul who brought excitement and dynamism to every performance. His commitment to his craft left an lasting impression."

In a release, the channel he worked for affirmed Stock was known for his presence, approachability and quick humor, adding that his legacy "will endure".

A National Challenge

South Africa, the African economic powerhouse, has one of the world's highest homicide statistics, fuelled by robberies and syndicate wars, with some 63 people murdered daily according to recent data, based on government figures.

Jared Wang
Jared Wang

A film critic with over a decade of experience covering Hollywood and indie cinema, passionate about storytelling and cinematic trends.