Popular South African DJ, Warrick Stock, known as DJ Warras, has been shot and killed in Johannesburg, sparking widespread shock and highlighting the country’s ongoing battle with violent crime.

The 40-year-old media personality was gunned down in the Johannesburg city centre on Tuesday afternoon, police have confirmed. According to a statement from the South African Police Service (SAPS), three suspects approached Stock after he parked his vehicle and opened fire before fleeing on foot.

“We are investigating the murder of DJ Warras,” stated local police chief Fred Kekana. “CCTV footage shows a man with dreadlocks, appearing to be in a security uniform, firing at the victim.”

Kekana added that Stock attempted to run after being shot but collapsed across the street. He was reportedly carrying an unused firearm at the time of the attack, and nothing was stolen. Police have recovered cartridges from the scene and are tracking the suspects, who are believed to have walked a considerable distance after the shooting.

The motive for the shooting remains unknown, and no arrests have been made. Police are appealing to the public and any eyewitnesses to come forward with information.

Stock was a prominent figure in South African media, hosting radio shows, appearing on television, and presenting the reality show Ngicel iVisa on Mzansi Magic. Mzansi Magic’s director of local entertainment Channels, Shirley Adonisi, described him as “a talented storyteller, a passionate music lover and a warm soul who brought joy and energy to every moment on screen.”

Beyond his broadcasting career, Stock was involved in private security, offering VIP protection and event security services. Local media reports also suggest he was involved in property management, including assisting with evictions.

The news of his death has been met with an outpouring of grief from fans, colleagues, and political leaders. Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie expressed his anger and sadness, saying, “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 should be.”

Mmusi Maimane, leader of the South Africans Build One party, described the murder as “a shock for all South Africans.”

Stock’s sister, Nicole Stock, told SABC she was “in shock” and “shattered” by the loss. She pleaded with the public to refrain from sharing graphic images or videos, particularly considering the pain for her brother’s three sons.

South Africa continues to grapple with a high murder rate, with police data indicating approximately 63 people are killed each day between April and September. This incident underscores the pervasive nature of violent crime in the country.

Image Source: MYJOYONLINE