South Africans continue to express grief and outrage following the killing of renowned radio and club DJ Warrick Stock, widely known as DJ Warras, who was shot dead in Johannesburg’s central business district on 16 December.

The 40-year-old media personality was attacked in broad daylight near Carlton Centre, an incident that has intensified public concern over violent crime and growing claims that DJs in Gauteng are being targeted by criminal networks.

According to police, Stock had parked his vehicle outside Zambesi House when he was approached by three suspects. One of the men allegedly opened fire before the group fled the scene on foot.

"It is alleged the victim was approached by three unknown suspects after parking his vehicle, and they opened fire at him before fleeing the scene on foot," the South African Police Service (SAPS) said in a statement.

Police confirmed that no items were stolen during the attack and that Stock was carrying an unused firearm at the time. CCTV footage reportedly shows a man with dreadlocks, dressed in what appeared to be a security uniform, firing at Stock before escaping.

Fred Kekana, a local police chief, said the DJ attempted to flee after being shot but collapsed across the street. Cartridges and other key evidence were recovered at the scene, and authorities have appealed to the public for information.

"We know they walked a long distance after the shooting, and officers have been tracking them to determine their whereabouts," Kekana added.

Family and Nation in Shock

Stock’s sister, Nicole, confirmed his death and described the devastating moment she received the news.

“I’m still in shock; I haven’t processed it officially,” she said. “I’ve just touched his body, it’s still warm. I don’t actually have words. I don’t know what to say.

“I’m broken, I’m shattered because we know he was a voice for many people around the country and even around the world. You know, he spoke out bravely about so many issues that not many people will speak about. It’s truly a tremendous loss not only to us as a family, but to a nation as well.”

In a separate interview, she added: "I am in shock. I don't have words. I am shattered."

"We know he was a voice for many people around the country. He spoke out bravely about issues not many people were willing to speak about. This is a tremendous loss."

She also urged the public to stop circulating graphic images and videos from the scene, noting the emotional toll on the family, particularly Stock’s three sons.

Political Leaders Condemn Killing

The murder sparked immediate reactions from government officials and political leaders across the country.

Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie expressed anger over the killing.

“I’m very angry. DJ Warras was a patriot, he was a lover of this country. He spoke His truth without fear or favour. He even criticised me. He was a pure example of what and who we should be. Now why am I angry? Because he was totally against the hijacking of buildings,” McKenzie said.

Opposition leader Mmusi Maimane described the killing as a national shock.

“The brazen murder of DJ Warras in broad daylight is a true shock to all South Africans. I offer my deepest condolences to his family, friends and fans in this difficult time,” he said.

“We have lost one of the most outspoken and patriotic young South Africans. DJ Warras was someone who was a voice for many in this country. Someone whose blood and tears were fully committed to this nation. We call upon the police to act quickly to arrest the hitmen and to also apprehend those who made the order.”

EFF spokesperson Mbuyiseni Dlozi linked the murder to broader societal issues.

“Sad news indeed. The murder of Warrick Stock, a.k.a DJ Warras is yet another episode of South Africa’s culture of violence. Our heartfelt condolences, especially to his family. May his soul rest in peace and his killers brought to swift justice! We need to silence the guns, win the streets back in our troubled country,” he said.

Celebrated Media Career and Business Ventures

Born in Durban, Stock began his broadcasting career in radio before gaining national recognition after joining YFM in 2008. He later moved to 5FM and, in 2012, became a presenter on SABC1’s music show Live AMP, where he remained for about six years.

In recent years, he co-hosted The Shady PHodcast with DJ PH and earlier this year hosted the reality television series Ngicel’iVisa, which aired on Mzansi Magic.

"DJ Warras was more than just a face of a reality series. He was a talented storyteller, a passionate music lover and a warm soul who brought joy and energy to every moment on screen. His dedication to creativity left an indelible mark on our channels," said Shirley Adonisi, director of local entertainment Channels (Mnet).

Mzansi Magic also paid tribute, describing Stock as charismatic, warm and sharp-witted, adding that his legacy “will live on”.

Beyond broadcasting, Stock was involved in private security services, property management and building evictions, according to local reports. He was reportedly overseeing the installation of security systems at the building shortly before he was killed.

Ongoing Investigation Amid Crime Crisis

Police say the motive for the shooting remains unclear and no arrests have been made. The killing comes as South Africa continues to battle high levels of violent crime, with police statistics indicating that an average of 63 people were killed daily between April and September this year.

As investigations continue, DJ Warras’ death has left a deep void in South Africa’s media and entertainment industry, with fans, colleagues and leaders calling for justice and safer streets.