A prominent South African radio and club DJ has been fatally gunned down in the country's largest city Johannesburg, sending shockwaves across a nation struggling with entrenched crime.
Warrick Stock, popularly known as DJ Warras, was shot and killed in the central business district on Tuesday afternoon.
Authorities reported the 40-year-old entertainer was confronted by a trio of assailants, one of whom began shooting at him before escaping on foot.
The motive behind the incident remains unclear and no arrests are in custody, as per the official statement.
Authorities revealed that Stock was ambushed as he was departing from a premises near the Carlton Centre.
He had spent several hours at the property managing the implementation of security systems, which had been controversially occupied by unknown people, as per local media.
"The report indicates the victim was confronted by three unidentified men after he parked his car, and they began shooting at him before running from the location on foot," a police statement stated.
Security camera video reportedly depicted a man with dreadlocks and dressed in what resembled a security uniform firing shots on Stock before making his escape.
The DJ attempted to flee after he was wounded but succumbed to his injuries across the street.
Police added that Stock had an unused firearm and no items were stolen during the assault.
Important clues, like bullet casings, were recovered from the scene.
Police have appealed eyewitnesses who may have have information to assist with the investigation.
"Evidence suggests they walked a long distance after the attack, and investigators have been attempting to locate them to find their whereabouts," remarked an authority figure.
His sister, a close relative, said the family was struggling to come to terms with the loss.
"I am in shock. I am shattered," she stated.
"Everyone understood he was a voice for many people. He was a fearless commentator about subjects not many people were prepared to tackle. This is a devastating blow."
She requested the community to not sharing explicit content from the incident, explaining this was an deeply traumatic time, especially for Stock's children.
Stock was the presenter of Ngicel' iVisa, a series that aired on a South African TV network.
Apart from his role as a presenter, Stock was active in various commercial activities, including private security, supplying high-level security services and managing safety for major functions across South Africa.
He was also said to be engaged in property management and assisted with building evictions.
His death has sent the nation reeling and led to an wave of remembrances from his audience, the government and political parties.
A cabinet official commented he was furious and grief-stricken by Stock's killing.
"He spoke his truth without fear or favour. He even criticized me and my actions as a public official. He was a true embodiment of who we should be," was his tribute.
A public representative said the "brazen murder of DJ Warras in broad daylight is a shock for all South Africans".
A broadcasting director noted that "DJ Warras was not merely a face of a reality series. He was a talented storyteller, a passionate music lover and a generous spirit who brought happiness and vitality to every performance. His artistic passion left an profound impact."
In a communication, the network he worked for said Stock was known for his presence, kindness and quick humor, adding that his legacy "will endure".
South Africa, the African economic powerhouse, has one of the world's highest murder rates, fuelled by property crime and syndicate wars, with some 63 people losing their lives per day according to recent data, as per official statistics.
A seasoned financial analyst and writer passionate about empowering others through clear, actionable advice on money and life.
News
News
News
News
Robert Williams
Robert Williams
Robert Williams