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

The media personality was attacked in the afternoon.
DJ Warras was shot by a individual with dreadlocked hair in the middle of the day, officials state.

A renowned South African radio and club DJ has been fatally gunned down in the metropolis of Johannesburg, sending shockwaves across a country battling persistent crime.

Warrick Stock, popularly known as DJ Warras, was attacked in the downtown area on a Tuesday afternoon.

Authorities reported the 40-year-old media personality was confronted by three suspects, with one opened fire on him before escaping on foot.

The motive of the attack remains unclear and no arrests are in custody, as per the official statement.

Details of the Attack

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

He had been present for hours at the property supervising the implementation of safety equipment, which had been controversially occupied by squatters, as per local media.

"It is alleged the deceased was approached by three unidentified men after parking his vehicle, and they began shooting at him before escaping on foot," an official report stated.

Surveillance tape reportedly captured a suspect with dreadlocked hair and wearing what looked like a guard's attire opening fire on Stock before fleeing.

The DJ sought to escape after he was shot but fell down across the street.

Officials noted that Stock had an weapon on his person and nothing was taken during the incident.

Crucial forensic evidence, like cartridges, were recovered from the location.

Investigation Ongoing

Authorities have requested eyewitnesses who may have seen the suspects to contact them.

"We know they covered significant ground after the attack, and officers have been tracking them to establish their whereabouts," remarked an authority figure.

Family and Public Reaction

His sister, a close relative, expressed the loved ones are reeling to process his death.

"I am in shock. I don't have words," she stated.
"It is clear he was a champion for numerous individuals. He addressed issues courageously about topics not many people were prepared to discuss. This is a devastating blow."

She urged the community to refrain from sharing disturbing footage from the scene, noting this was an deeply traumatic time, particularly for Stock's young family.

Life Beyond the Decks

Stock was the star of Ngicel' iVisa, a series that was broadcast on a South African digital satellite entertainment channel.

Apart from his role as a presenter, Stock was engaged in various business ventures, including protective services, providing VIP protection services and protecting major functions across South Africa.

He was also reportedly involved in real estate operations and participated in property reclaimations.

Official and Public Tributes

His killing has shocked the country and triggered an outpouring of tributes from his fans, the government and political parties.

A senior figure remarked he was furious and grief-stricken by Stock's untimely death.

"He was forthright without fear or favour. He even criticized me and my decisions as a minister. He was a true embodiment of who we should be," he stated.

A political leader stated the "brazen murder of DJ Warras in broad daylight is a shock for all South Africans".

A industry leader noted that "DJ Warras was not merely a TV personality. He was a talented storyteller, a dedicated enthusiast of music and a warm soul who brought excitement and dynamism to every performance. His commitment to his craft left an indefinable mark."

In a statement, the broadcaster he worked for affirmed Stock was known for his charisma, approachability and quick humor, adding that his influence "will live on".

A National Challenge

South Africa, the region's leading economy, has one of the world's highest murder rates, exacerbated by robberies and syndicate wars, with some 63 people losing their lives per day in a recent six-month period, as per police data.

Daniel Jones
Daniel Jones

A tech journalist and innovation strategist with over a decade of experience covering emerging technologies and digital transformation across industries.