South African radio and club DJ Warrick Stock, popularly known as DJ Warras, was shot dead in central Johannesburg on Tuesday afternoon, a brazen attack that has horrified a country grappling with high levels of violent crime. The 40-year-old media personality was gunned down outside Zambesi House near the Carlton Centre, where he had spent several hours overseeing the installation of security systems.
According to police, Stock was approached by three suspects after parking his vehicle, and one of them opened fire before the group fled on foot. CCTV footage showed a man with dreadlocks, dressed in what appeared to be a security uniform, firing at Stock. The DJ attempted to run but collapsed across the street. No arrests have been made, and the motive remains unknown, with authorities appealing for witnesses.
Stock, who was carrying an unused firearm, had nothing stolen during the attack, and cartridge casings were recovered at the scene. Police chief Fred Kekana stated that officers are tracking the suspects, who were seen walking a considerable distance after the shooting. The investigation is ongoing, with no clear leads yet.
Warrick Stock was a well-known figure in South African media, hosting the reality show “Ngicel’ iVisa” on Mzansi Magic and working as a radio presenter and podcaster. Beyond entertainment, he was involved in business ventures including private security and property management, often assisting with evictions and providing VIP protection services.
His family, particularly his sister Nicole Stock, expressed profound shock and grief, urging the public to refrain from sharing graphic content out of respect for Stock’s three sons. “I am shattered,” she told the SABC, highlighting his role as a voice for many on contentious issues.
The murder has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across South Africa. Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie described Stock as someone who “spoke his truth without fear or favour,” while opposition leader Mmusi Maimane called it a “brazen murder in broad daylight.” Mzansi Magic praised his charisma and legacy, which they said would endure.
South Africa faces one of the world’s highest murder rates, with police data indicating about 63 people killed daily between April and September, driven largely by robbery and gang violence. Stock’s death has reignited debates about public safety and the effectiveness of law enforcement in curbing such crimes.
As the manhunt continues, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing crime crisis in South Africa, with implications for both community security and the cultural landscape, leaving a void in the media industry and raising urgent questions about violence prevention.
