A popular South African radio and club DJ has been shot dead in the metropolis of Johannesburg, triggering widespread grief across a country battling entrenched crime.
Warrick Stock, popularly known as DJ Warras, was shot and killed in the downtown area on Tuesday afternoon.
Police said the 40-year-old media personality was approached by three suspects, one of whom began shooting at him before escaping on foot.
The motive behind the attack is unknown and no suspects have been apprehended have been made, as per the official statement.
Law enforcement said that Stock was targeted as he was exiting a location near the city center landmark.
He had been present for hours at the building managing the implementation of security systems, which had been reportedly taken over by squatters, as per local media.
"Authorities believe the victim was confronted by three unknown suspects after he parked his car, and they began shooting at him before fleeing the scene on foot," an official report confirmed.
Surveillance tape reportedly depicted a suspect with dreadlocks and wearing what appeared to be a security uniform opening fire on Stock before running away.
The DJ sought to escape after he was hit but collapsed on the opposite side of the road.
It was further revealed that Stock had an unused firearm and nothing was taken during the incident.
Crucial forensic evidence, like cartridges, were discovered at the location.
Police have appealed members of the public who may have seen the suspects to contact them.
"We know they walked a long distance after the attack, and investigators have been attempting to locate them to establish their whereabouts," remarked an authority figure.
His sister, Nicole Stock, said the relatives are devastated to process his death.
"I am devastated. I am shattered," were her words.
"It is clear he was a representative for countless citizens. He spoke out bravely about subjects not many people were ready to discuss. This is a devastating blow."
She appealed to the citizens to refrain from sharing explicit content from the incident, noting this was an incredibly difficult time, particularly for Stock's children.
Stock was the host of Ngicel' iVisa, a series that premiered on a South African TV network.
In addition to his role as a presenter, Stock was involved in various entrepreneurial pursuits, including security provision, supplying elite guarding services and securing prestigious gatherings across South Africa.
He was also understood to participate in building administration and participated in tenant removals.
His killing has caused national trauma and triggered an outpouring of tributes from his fans, the government and various organizations.
A senior figure remarked he was outraged and heartbroken by Stock's killing.
"He spoke his truth boldly and honestly. He even spoke up against me and my actions as a minister. He was a pure example of who we must aspire to be," was his tribute.
A public representative stated the "shocking killing of DJ Warras in broad daylight is a shock for all South Africans".
A broadcasting director expressed that "Stock was more than just a TV personality. He was a skilled narrator, a true devotee of sound and a warm soul who brought joy and energy to every performance. His artistic passion left an indefinable mark."
In a release, the network he worked for declared Stock was known for his charisma, approachability and quick humor, adding that his memory "will be remembered".
South Africa, the region's leading economy, has one of the planet's most severe murder rates, exacerbated by robberies and organized criminal activity, with some 63 people losing their lives per day in a recent six-month period, according to police data.
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