South Africans Mourn DJ Warras After Fatal Johannesburg Shooting
The South African entertainment industry and the country at large are in mourning following the fatal shooting of popular DJ, broadcaster and television personality Warrick Stock, widely known as DJ Warras.
The 40-year-old was shot dead on Tuesday afternoon in Johannesburg’s central business district in what police have described as a targeted attack. The incident has once again drawn attention to the country’s ongoing struggle with violent crime.
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), DJ Warras was approached by three suspects shortly after parking his vehicle near Zambesi House, close to the Carlton Centre. One of the suspects allegedly opened fire before the group fled the scene on foot. No arrests have been made at this stage, and the motive for the shooting remains unknown.
Gauteng police spokesperson Brigadier Fred Kekana confirmed that Stock had spent several hours at the building overseeing the installation of security systems. The premises had reportedly been controversially occupied by unknown individuals, according to reports by the SABC.
“It is alleged that the victim was approached by three unknown suspects who opened fire before fleeing the scene,” SAPS said in a statement.
CCTV footage from the area reportedly shows a man with dreadlocks, dressed in what appeared to be a security uniform, firing shots at Stock before escaping. Despite being wounded, the DJ attempted to run away but collapsed across the street, Kekana said.
Police further confirmed that Stock was in possession of an unused firearm at the time of the attack and that no personal belongings were taken, suggesting that robbery was not the motive. Spent cartridges were recovered at the scene, and investigators are analysing CCTV footage as part of their probe.
Authorities have appealed to members of the public who may have witnessed the incident or have information about the suspects to come forward. “We know they walked a long distance after the shooting, and our officers have been tracking their movements,” Kekana added.
The news of Stock’s death has devastated his family. His sister, Nicole Stock, told the SABC that the family was struggling to come to terms with the loss.
“I am in shock. I don’t have words. I am shattered,” she said. “He was a voice for many people across the country. He spoke bravely about issues others were afraid to address. This is a tremendous loss.”
She also urged the public to refrain from sharing graphic images or videos from the scene, noting that the family, particularly Stock’s three sons, were deeply affected.
DJ Warras was a familiar face and voice to South African audiences. He was the presenter of Ngicel’ iVisa, a reality show that premiered on Mzansi Magic, and was known for his outspoken views and commanding presence across radio, television and podcasting platforms.
Beyond his media career, Stock was involved in several business ventures, including private security services that provided elite guarding and VIP protection for high-profile events. He was also reportedly involved in property management and building evictions.
Tributes have poured in from across the country, including from political leaders, government officials and figures within the entertainment industry.
