Shock as Renowned South African DJ Gunned Down in the City of Johannesburg.

Warrick Stock was shot in the middle of the day.
Warrick Stock was gunned down by a individual with dreadlocks in broad daylight, police say.

A popular South African radio and club DJ has been fatally gunned down in the country's largest city Johannesburg, triggering widespread grief across a country battling rampant crime.

Warrick Stock, widely recognized as DJ Warras, was shot and killed in the city centre on Tuesday afternoon.

Authorities reported the 40-year-old media personality was confronted by a trio of assailants, with one opened fire on him before fleeing on foot.

The reason behind the shooting has not been established and no arrests have taken place, police said.

The Fatal Incident

Authorities said that Stock was attacked as he was departing from a location near the city center landmark.

He had spent several hours at the property overseeing the installation of safety equipment, which had been controversially occupied by unknown people, according to reports.

"The report indicates the victim was confronted by three unknown suspects after parking his vehicle, and they opened fire at him before escaping on foot," an official report confirmed.

Surveillance tape reportedly depicted a man with dreadlocked hair and wearing what appeared to be a guard's attire firing shots on Stock before fleeing.

The DJ tried to run away after he was hit but collapsed on the opposite side of the road.

It was further revealed that Stock had an gun that was not fired and it was not a robbery during the attack.

Important clues, like cartridges, were discovered at the location.

Investigation Ongoing

Authorities have requested anyone who saw the event who may have have information to come forward.

"Our information indicates they walked a long distance after the attack, and officers have been tracking them to determine their whereabouts," added an official.

A Nation in Mourning

His sister, a close relative, stated the relatives are devastated to understand the tragedy.

"I am in shock. I cannot express the pain," she said.
"Everyone understood he was a representative for countless citizens. He addressed issues courageously about subjects not many people were ready to discuss. This is a tremendous loss."

She appealed to the public to avoid sharing disturbing footage from the scene, explaining this was an deeply traumatic time, above all for Stock's three sons.

Life Beyond the Decks

Stock was the star of Ngicel' iVisa, a reality show that was broadcast on a South African digital satellite entertainment channel.

Apart from his media career, Stock was involved in various business ventures, including security provision, supplying VIP protection services and managing safety for prestigious gatherings across South Africa.

He was also said to be engaged in building administration and assisted with building evictions.

Condolences Pour In

His murder has caused national trauma and prompted an wave of remembrances from his audience, the government and various organizations.

A senior figure commented he was furious and grief-stricken by Stock's untimely death.

"He was forthright boldly and honestly. He even challenged me and my decisions as a public official. He was a pure example of who we ought to be," the minister added.

A party figurehead stated the "brazen murder of DJ Warras in broad daylight is a tragedy for all South Africans".

A broadcasting director expressed that "DJ Warras was more than just a TV personality. He was a talented storyteller, a passionate music lover and a generous spirit who brought joy and energy to every moment on screen. His commitment to his craft left an indefinable mark."

In a release, the broadcaster he worked for affirmed Stock was known for his magnetism, approachability and intelligent commentary, adding that his legacy "will live on".

The Broader Picture

South Africa, the African economic powerhouse, has one of the world's highest rates of violent death, driven by robberies and syndicate wars, with some 63 people murdered daily between April and September, according to government figures.

Tabitha Obrien
Tabitha Obrien

A digital strategist with over a decade of experience helping startups scale through innovative marketing and data-driven insights.

May 2026 Blog Roll