A popular South African radio and club DJ has been murdered in the nation's economic hub Johannesburg, causing national outrage across a nation struggling with rampant crime.
Warrick Stock, popularly known as DJ Warras, was attacked in the downtown area on a Tuesday afternoon.
Authorities reported the 40-year-old entertainer was confronted by a trio of assailants, with one opened fire on him before fleeing on foot.
The motive behind the shooting remains unclear and no suspects have been apprehended have been made, according to authorities.
Law enforcement said that Stock was targeted as he was departing from a location close to the Carlton Centre.
He had spent several hours at the site overseeing the implementation of security systems, which had been controversially occupied by unknown people, as per local media.
"The report indicates the man was confronted by three unknown suspects after he parked his car, and they began shooting at him before escaping on foot," a police statement stated.
Surveillance tape reportedly captured a individual with dreadlocks and wearing what looked like a protective services outfit opening fire on Stock before running away.
The DJ attempted to flee after he was wounded but fell down on the opposite side of the road.
Police added that Stock had an weapon on his person and nothing was taken during the attack.
Important clues, like bullet casings, were recovered from the location.
Officials are asking eyewitnesses who may have seen the suspects to contact them.
"We know they walked a long distance after the shooting, and officers have been tracking them to find their location," added an official.
His family member, Nicole Stock, expressed the loved ones are reeling to process his death.
"I am in shock. I cannot express the pain," she stated.
"We know he was a voice for many people. He was a fearless commentator about subjects not many people were prepared to discuss. This is a tremendous loss."
She urged the public to refrain from sharing disturbing footage from the incident, explaining this was an deeply traumatic time, particularly for Stock's three sons.
Stock was the host of Ngicel' iVisa, a reality show that aired on a South African digital satellite entertainment channel.
Beyond his role as a presenter, Stock was engaged in various business ventures, including security provision, supplying elite guarding services and protecting prestigious gatherings across South Africa.
He was also said to be engaged in building administration and participated in tenant removals.
His killing has shocked the country and led to an flood of condolences from his audience, the government and various organizations.
A government minister commented he was outraged and heartbroken by Stock's untimely death.
"He spoke his truth without fear or favour. He even spoke up against me and my decisions as a minister. He was a true embodiment of who we ought to be," he stated.
A party figurehead stated the "audacious attack of DJ Warras in the middle of the day is a shock for all South Africans".
A broadcasting director said that "Stock was far beyond a TV personality. He was a talented storyteller, a dedicated enthusiast of music and a generous spirit who brought joy and energy to every performance. His artistic passion left an profound impact."
In a statement, the network he worked for declared Stock was known for his charisma, kindness and intelligent commentary, adding that his memory "will be remembered".
South Africa, the region's leading economy, has one of the world's highest murder rates, exacerbated by theft-related violence and organized criminal activity, with some over sixty individuals murdered daily according to recent data, as per police data.
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