A popular South African radio and club DJ has been shot dead in the nation's economic hub Johannesburg, triggering widespread grief across a country struggling with persistent crime.
Warrick Stock, who went by the name DJ Warras, was attacked in the city centre on the afternoon of Tuesday.
Officials stated the 40-year-old presenter was confronted by a trio of assailants, with one shot at him before fleeing on foot.
The motive of the attack is unknown and no arrests have taken place, according to authorities.
Law enforcement revealed that Stock was targeted as he was leaving a premises in the vicinity of the city center landmark.
He had spent several hours at the property managing the setup of security systems, which had been reportedly taken over by squatters, as per local media.
"It is alleged the victim was confronted by three unidentified men after parking his vehicle, and they began shooting at him before fleeing the scene on foot," a police statement stated.
CCTV footage reportedly captured a man with dreadlocks and dressed in what looked like a guard's attire shooting on Stock before running away.
The DJ attempted to flee after he was hit but fell down across the street.
It was further revealed that Stock had an unused firearm and nothing was taken during the assault.
Crucial forensic evidence, like bullet casings, were found at the crime scene.
Authorities have requested anyone who saw the event who may have seen the suspects to assist with the investigation.
"We know they traveled on foot after the attack, and officers have been tracking them to determine their location," added an official.
His family member, Nicole Stock, expressed the family was struggling to process his death.
"Words fail me. I don't have words," she stated.
"We know he was a voice for many people. He was a fearless commentator about issues not many people were ready to speak about. This is a profound tragedy."
She appealed to the citizens to avoid sharing explicit content from the scene, saying this was an incredibly difficult time, particularly for Stock's three sons.
Stock was the presenter of Ngicel' iVisa, a reality show that premiered on a popular local TV network.
Beyond his role as a presenter, Stock was involved in various entrepreneurial pursuits, including private security, supplying VIP protection services and protecting major functions across South Africa.
He was also understood to participate in building administration and assisted with property reclaimations.
His murder has sent the nation reeling and led to an outpouring of tributes from his audience, the authorities and political parties.
A senior figure said he was furious and grief-stricken by Stock's murder.
"He spoke his truth boldly and honestly. He even spoke up against me and my decisions as a public official. He was a pure example of who we ought to be," he stated.
A party figurehead said the "shocking killing of DJ Warras in broad daylight is a tragedy for all South Africans".
A industry leader said that "Stock was more than just a face of a reality series. He was a skilled narrator, a true devotee of sound and a generous spirit who brought happiness and vitality to every appearance. His artistic passion left an lasting impression."
In a statement, the broadcaster he worked for affirmed Stock was known for his magnetism, warmth and quick humor, adding that his influence "will endure".
South Africa, the African economic powerhouse, has one of the planet's most severe homicide statistics, driven by theft-related violence and organized criminal activity, with some dozens of citizens killed each day between April and September, according to police data.
Elara is a financial strategist with over a decade of experience in wealth management and entrepreneurship.
