A prominent South African radio and club DJ has been shot dead in the country's largest city Johannesburg, triggering widespread grief across a country grappling with persistent crime.
Warrick Stock, widely recognized as DJ Warras, was attacked in the downtown area on a Tuesday afternoon.
Authorities reported the 40-year-old media personality was accosted by three suspects, one of whom began shooting at him before fleeing on foot.
The motive of the attack is unknown and no one has been arrested are in custody, as per the official statement.
Police revealed that Stock was attacked as he was departing from a location in the vicinity of the Carlton Centre.
He had been present for hours at the building supervising the installation of safety equipment, which had been reportedly taken over by squatters, it was reported.
"Authorities believe the deceased was approached by three unknown suspects after he parked his car, and they began shooting at him before escaping on foot," authorities confirmed.
Surveillance tape showed a individual with dreadlocked hair and dressed in what looked like a protective services outfit firing shots on Stock before fleeing.
The DJ attempted to flee after he was shot but fell down on the opposite side of the road.
Police added that Stock had an unused firearm and nothing was taken during the incident.
Key evidence, like bullet casings, were found at the scene.
Authorities have requested anyone who saw the event who may have seen the suspects to contact them.
"Evidence suggests they walked a long distance after the attack, and police have been attempting to locate them to establish their whereabouts," remarked an authority figure.
His sister, a close relative, said the relatives are devastated to come to terms with the loss.
"I am in shock. I am shattered," were her words.
"Everyone understood he was a representative for countless citizens. He spoke out bravely about subjects not many people were willing to tackle. This is a profound tragedy."
She urged the citizens to avoid sharing graphic images from the scene, noting this was an deeply traumatic time, especially for Stock's three sons.
Stock was the host of Ngicel' iVisa, a television program that aired on a South African digital satellite entertainment channel.
Beyond his media career, Stock was involved in various entrepreneurial pursuits, including security provision, offering elite guarding services and protecting prestigious gatherings across South Africa.
He was also understood to participate in property management and was involved in tenant removals.
His killing has caused national trauma and triggered an flood of condolences from his audience, the government and various organizations.
A senior figure said he was furious and grief-stricken by Stock's killing.
"He expressed his views fearlessly and impartially. He even spoke up against me and my actions as a public official. He was a true embodiment of who we must aspire to be," the minister added.
A public representative said the "audacious attack of DJ Warras in broad daylight is a trauma 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 passionate music lover and a generous spirit who brought happiness and vitality to every performance. His commitment to his craft left an profound impact."
In a communication, the broadcaster he worked for declared Stock was known for his presence, approachability and intelligent commentary, adding that his memory "will live on".
South Africa, the African economic powerhouse, has one of the world's highest rates of violent death, exacerbated by theft-related violence and syndicate wars, with some over sixty individuals murdered daily between April and September, according to police data.
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