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

DJ Warras was shot in the afternoon.
Warrick Stock was shot by a man with dreadlocked hair in broad daylight, police say.

A renowned South African radio and club DJ has been murdered in the metropolis of Johannesburg, sending shockwaves across a country grappling with persistent crime.

Warrick Stock, popularly known as DJ Warras, was gunned down in the city centre on a Tuesday afternoon.

Police said the 40-year-old presenter was confronted by three individuals, with one began shooting at him before escaping on foot.

The purpose behind the shooting has not been established and no suspects have been apprehended have been made, police said.

The Fatal Incident

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

He had been present for hours at the site supervising the installation of safety equipment, which had been illegally inhabited by unknown people, according to reports.

"It is alleged the man was approached by three unknown suspects after he parked his car, and they began shooting at him before running from the location on foot," authorities stated.

CCTV footage reportedly captured a individual with dreadlocks and dressed in what appeared to be a guard's attire shooting on Stock before making his escape.

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

Police added that Stock had an weapon on his person and no items were stolen during the assault.

Key evidence, like cartridges, were recovered from the location.

Appeal for Witnesses

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

"We know they traveled on foot after the shooting, and investigators have been tracking them to determine their location," added an official.

Family and Public Reaction

His family member, Nicole Stock, said the family was struggling to understand the tragedy.

"I am devastated. I don't have words," she stated.
"Everyone understood he was a representative for countless citizens. He spoke out bravely about issues not many people were willing to speak about. This is a tremendous loss."

She urged the community to refrain from sharing graphic images from the scene, saying this was an deeply traumatic time, particularly for Stock's three sons.

His Professional Legacy

Stock was the presenter of Ngicel' iVisa, a television program that was broadcast on a popular local digital satellite entertainment channel.

In addition to his role as a presenter, Stock was involved in various business ventures, including private security, offering VIP protection services and managing safety for prestigious gatherings across South Africa.

He was also reportedly involved in real estate operations and assisted with building evictions.

National Shock

His killing has shocked the country and triggered an flood of condolences from his audience, the government and political parties.

A government minister commented he was furious and grief-stricken by Stock's murder.

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

A public representative said the "brazen murder of DJ Warras in broad daylight is a trauma for all South Africans".

A industry leader said that "DJ Warras was not merely a face of a reality series. He was a gifted communicator, a dedicated enthusiast of music and a warm soul who brought excitement and dynamism to every moment on screen. His artistic passion left an profound impact."

In a release, the network he worked for said Stock was known for his charisma, warmth and sharp wit, adding that his legacy "will endure".

A National Challenge

South Africa, the region's leading economy, has one of the planet's most severe rates of violent death, fuelled by robberies and syndicate wars, with some 63 people losing their lives per day in a recent six-month period, as per official statistics.

Timothy Howard
Timothy Howard

A tech journalist with over a decade of experience covering consumer electronics and digital innovation, passionate about making tech accessible.