Grief as Beloved South African DJ Gunned Down in the City of Johannesburg.

Warrick Stock was shot in the middle of the day.
Warrick Stock was shot by a individual with dreadlocks in broad daylight, police say.

A renowned South African radio and club DJ has been murdered in the nation's economic hub Johannesburg, causing national outrage across a country struggling with rampant crime.

Warrick Stock, who went by the name DJ Warras, was shot and killed in the central business district on a Tuesday afternoon.

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

The purpose behind the shooting remains unclear and no one has been arrested have taken place, according to authorities.

How It Happened

Law enforcement indicated that Stock was ambushed as he was departing from a premises near the city center landmark.

He had devoted time at the site overseeing the implementation of security systems, which had been controversially occupied by unknown people, according to reports.

"It is alleged the victim was confronted by three unidentified men after he parked his car, and they shot at him before running from the location on foot," a police statement confirmed.

Surveillance tape showed a man with dreadlocked hair and dressed in what appeared to be a security uniform opening fire on Stock before running away.

The DJ attempted to flee after he was wounded but succumbed to his injuries on the opposite side of the road.

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

Key evidence, like bullet casings, were discovered at the location.

Call for Public Assistance

Officials are asking members of the public who may have witnessed the attack to assist with the investigation.

"Our information indicates they traveled on foot after the shooting, and police have been attempting to locate them to find their location," stated a police chief.

Family and Public Reaction

His sister, Nicole Stock, expressed the family was struggling to process his death.

"I am devastated. I am shattered," she stated.
"It is clear he was a representative for countless citizens. He was a fearless commentator about issues not many people were willing to tackle. This is a tremendous loss."

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

His Professional Legacy

Stock was the presenter of Ngicel' iVisa, a reality show that aired on a popular local digital satellite entertainment channel.

Beyond his role as a presenter, Stock was involved in various commercial activities, including protective services, offering VIP protection services and securing major functions across South Africa.

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

Condolences Pour In

His death has shocked the country and triggered an outpouring of tributes from his fans, the government and various organizations.

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

"He spoke his truth without fear or favour. He even spoke up against me and my decisions as a minister. He was a pure example of who we must aspire to be," was his tribute.

A political leader stated the "audacious attack of DJ Warras in broad daylight is a tragedy for all South Africans".

A industry leader said that "DJ Warras was far beyond a face of a reality series. He was a gifted communicator, a true devotee of sound and a generous spirit who brought excitement and dynamism to every moment on screen. His artistic passion left an lasting impression."

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

A National Challenge

South Africa, the region's leading economy, has one of the planet's most severe rates of violent death, fuelled by theft-related violence and syndicate wars, with some over sixty individuals killed each day between April and September, as per police data.

Charles Shields
Charles Shields

A software engineer and retro computing enthusiast with over 15 years of experience restoring vintage computers and documenting tech history.