Johannesburg, South Africa – Shock and grief swept across South Africa on Tuesday as popular radio and club DJ Warrick Stock, known professionally as DJ Warras, was shot dead in broad daylight in the heart of Johannesburg. The 40-year-old media personality was approached by three suspects, one of whom opened fire before fleeing the scene, police confirmed.

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Details of the Shooting

The South African Police Service (SAPS) reported that DJ Warras was attacked as he left Zambesi House near Carlton Centre. CCTV footage captured a man with dreadlocks, dressed in what appeared to be a security uniform, firing at Stock before fleeing on foot.

Stock attempted to escape after being shot but collapsed across the street. Police found cartridges at the scene, but nothing was stolen, and Stock had an unused firearm on his person. No arrests have been made, and the motive for the attack remains unknown. Authorities have appealed to the public for any eyewitness information.

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Career and Public Life

DJ Warras was a well-known radio and TV presenter, podcaster, and host of the reality show Ngicel’ iVisa on Mzansi Magic, a South African digital satellite entertainment channel. Beyond broadcasting, he managed private security services, VIP protection, and high-profile event security, and was involved in property management and building evictions.

His sister, Nicole Stock, expressed the family’s devastation:

“I am in shock. I don’t have words. I am shattered… We know he was a voice for many people around the country. This is a tremendous loss.”

Stock was also a father of three, and his family has appealed to the public not to share graphic images or videos from the shooting scene.

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Tributes from Fans, Government, and Industry

Tributes poured in from across South Africa. Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie described his murder as a personal blow:

“He spoke his truth without fear or favour. He even spoke up against me and my decisions. He was a pure example of who we should be.”

Mmusi Maimane, leader of the Build One party, called the killing “brazen” and a shock to all South Africans.

Entertainment director Shirley Adonisi added:

“DJ Warras was more than just a face of a reality series. He was a talented storyteller, a passionate music lover, and a warm soul who brought joy and energy to every moment on screen.”

Mzansi Magic paid tribute to Stock’s charisma, warmth, and sharp wit, noting that his legacy “will live on.”

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Context: South Africa’s Crime Challenges

South Africa, the continent’s most industrialized nation, faces one of the world’s highest murder rates, fueled by robberies, gang violence, and organized crime. Police data indicates that an average of 63 people were killed daily between April and September in 2025.

The shocking daylight murder of a prominent public figure like DJ Warras has reignited public concern over urban violence, security failures, and gang-related crimes in Johannesburg and other major cities.