South Africa has been plunged into shock and mourning following the killing of popular radio and club DJ Warrick Stock, widely known as DJ Warras, who was shot dead in central Johannesburg on Tuesday afternoon. His death has reignited national anguish over the country’s entrenched crime crisis and the persistent threat of gun violence.
Police confirmed that the 40 year old media personality was approached by three suspects after parking his vehicle outside Zambesi House near the Carlton Centre. One of the suspects opened fire before fleeing the scene on foot. The motive for the attack remains unknown and no arrests have been made.
According to the South African Police Service, DJ Warras attempted to flee after being shot but collapsed across the street. Investigators recovered cartridges at the scene and confirmed that nothing was stolen during the attack, despite Stock reportedly carrying an unused firearm at the time.
CCTV footage reviewed by police allegedly shows a suspect with dreadlocks, dressed in what appeared to be a security uniform, firing at Stock before escaping. Authorities believe the suspects walked a considerable distance after the shooting and are appealing to members of the public for information that could assist in locating them.
Stock was a prominent radio and television presenter, podcaster and reality show host. He was best known for presenting Ngicel’ iVisa, a reality series aired on Mzansi Magic. Beyond broadcasting, he was involved in several business ventures, including private security services offering elite guarding and VIP protection, as well as property management and building eviction support.
At the time of the shooting, reports indicate Stock had spent several hours at the premises overseeing the installation of security systems in a building that had been controversially occupied by unknown individuals.
The news of his death has prompted an outpouring of grief from family members, fans, colleagues and public figures. His sister, Nicole Stock, described the loss as devastating, saying the family was struggling to process the tragedy. She appealed to the public to refrain from sharing graphic images or videos from the scene, noting the emotional toll on the family, particularly Stock’s three sons.
Tributes have poured in from across the country. Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie described himself as angry and saddened, noting that Stock spoke his truth fearlessly, even when it meant criticising those in power. Build One South Africa leader Mmusi Maimane condemned the killing as a brazen act carried out in broad daylight, calling it a shock to the nation.
Mzansi Magic and Mnet executives praised Stock for his charisma, creativity and impact on local entertainment, stating that his legacy would live on through his work and the lives he touched.
His killing comes against the backdrop of South Africa’s ongoing struggle with violent crime. The country has one of the highest murder rates in the world, with police data indicating that an average of more than 60 people are killed each day. DJ Warrick Stock’s death has once again underscored the human cost of insecurity and the urgent need for effective crime prevention and justice.
As investigations continue, South Africans mourn the loss of a vibrant voice in media and culture, while demanding answers and accountability in a society weary of violence.
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