Outrage as Popular South African DJ Gunned Down in the City of Johannesburg.

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

A popular South African radio and club DJ has been shot dead in the nation's economic hub Johannesburg, triggering widespread grief across a nation grappling with entrenched crime.

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

Authorities reported the forty-year-old entertainer was confronted by three individuals, with one opened fire on him before escaping on foot.

The purpose of the attack has not been established and no arrests have been made, according to authorities.

How It Happened

Authorities revealed that Stock was ambushed as he was departing from a building close to the city center landmark.

He had devoted time at the site managing the implementation of security systems, which had been illegally inhabited by unidentified individuals, it was reported.

"The report indicates the man was confronted by three unknown suspects after he parked his car, and they began shooting at him before escaping on foot," an official report said.

Surveillance tape reportedly captured a man with dreadlocks and wearing what resembled a guard's attire opening fire on Stock before fleeing.

The DJ sought to escape after he was hit but collapsed across the street.

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

Important clues, like cartridges, were discovered at the location.

Investigation Ongoing

Police have appealed anyone who saw the event who may have have information to assist with the investigation.

"Evidence suggests they walked a long distance after the attack, and officers have been attempting to locate them to find their destination," added an official.

Outpouring of Grief

His sister, Nicole Stock, expressed the loved ones are reeling to process his death.

"I am devastated. I cannot express the pain," she stated.
"Everyone understood he was a voice for many people. He addressed issues courageously about issues not many people were prepared to tackle. This is a profound tragedy."

She appealed to the community to refrain from sharing disturbing footage from the incident, saying this was an extremely painful time, especially for Stock's three sons.

Life Beyond the Decks

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

Beyond his media career, Stock was engaged in various entrepreneurial pursuits, including security provision, supplying elite guarding services and managing safety for major functions across South Africa.

He was also reportedly involved in property management and assisted with property reclaimations.

Official and Public Tributes

His death has caused national trauma and led to an wave of remembrances from his fans, the authorities and various organizations.

A government minister remarked he was outraged and heartbroken by Stock's murder.

"He was forthright boldly and honestly. He even challenged me and my policies as a public official. He was a shining model of who we must aspire to be," the minister added.

A party figurehead commented the "shocking killing of DJ Warras in broad daylight is a trauma for all South Africans".

A broadcasting director noted that "DJ Warras was far beyond a TV personality. He was a talented storyteller, a true devotee of sound and a generous spirit who brought excitement and dynamism to every moment on screen. His dedication to creativity left an profound impact."

In a statement, the broadcaster he worked for affirmed Stock was known for his presence, kindness and sharp wit, adding that his memory "will be remembered".

A National Challenge

South Africa, the continent's most industrialised nation, has one of the globally elevated rates of violent death, driven by robberies and organized criminal activity, with some dozens of citizens killed each day between April and September, as per police data.

Rachael Hudson
Rachael Hudson

Wildlife biologist with a passion for sloth research and environmental advocacy, sharing insights from field studies in Central America.