A popular South African media personality and entertainer has been murdered in the metropolis of Johannesburg, triggering widespread grief across a country struggling with rampant crime.
Warrick Stock, who went by the name DJ Warras, was shot and killed in the city centre on the afternoon of Tuesday.
Officials stated the 40-year-old media personality was confronted by three suspects, one of whom shot at him before running away.
The purpose behind the shooting has not been established and no one has been arrested have been made, as per the official statement.
Authorities said that Stock was ambushed as he was departing from a building in the vicinity of the Carlton Centre.
He had spent several hours at the property supervising the installation of safety equipment, which had been illegally inhabited by squatters, it was reported.
"It is alleged the man was confronted by three unidentified men after parking his vehicle, and they opened fire at him before escaping on foot," an official report confirmed.
CCTV footage reportedly captured a individual with dreadlocks and dressed in what looked like a guard's attire shooting on Stock before making his escape.
The DJ sought to escape after he was wounded but succumbed to his injuries across the street.
Police added that Stock had an weapon on his person and nothing was taken during the assault.
Important clues, like cartridges, were discovered at the location.
Officials are asking 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," stated a police chief.
His sister, Nicole Stock, said the family was struggling to come to terms with the loss.
"I am in shock. I cannot express the pain," she stated.
"We know he was a representative for countless citizens. He spoke out bravely about issues not many people were ready to discuss. This is a devastating blow."
She requested the citizens to refrain from sharing explicit content from the incident, saying this was an deeply traumatic time, above all for Stock's three sons.
Stock was the host of Ngicel' iVisa, a series that was broadcast on a popular local TV network.
Apart from his work in broadcasting, Stock was engaged in various entrepreneurial pursuits, including private security, offering elite guarding services and managing safety for prestigious gatherings across South Africa.
He was also reportedly involved in property management and participated in building evictions.
His murder has shocked the country and prompted an flood of condolences from his fans, the authorities and various organizations.
A government minister remarked he was angry and saddened by Stock's killing.
"He was forthright without fear or favour. He even criticized me and my actions as a public official. He was a pure example of who we should be," the minister added.
A political leader stated the "brazen murder of DJ Warras in broad daylight is a tragedy for all South Africans".
A media executive noted that "Stock was more than just a face of a reality series. He was a gifted communicator, a true devotee of sound and a kind-hearted individual who brought joy and energy to every moment on screen. His artistic passion left an profound impact."
In a communication, the channel he worked for declared Stock was known for his charisma, approachability and quick humor, adding that his influence "will live on".
South Africa, the African economic powerhouse, has one of the planet's most severe homicide statistics, driven by property crime and gang violence, with some over sixty individuals killed each day according to recent data, according to police data.
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