A renowned South African media personality and entertainer has been fatally gunned down in the nation's economic hub Johannesburg, causing national outrage across a nation grappling with rampant crime.
Warrick Stock, popularly known as DJ Warras, was shot and killed in the city centre on Tuesday afternoon.
Officials stated the forty-year-old presenter was approached by three individuals, one of whom shot at him before running away.
The motive of the incident is unknown and no arrests have been made, according to authorities.
Authorities revealed that Stock was ambushed as he was departing from a building close to the Carlton Centre.
He had spent several hours at the building managing the implementation of safety equipment, which had been controversially occupied by unidentified individuals, it was reported.
"Authorities believe the victim was confronted by three unknown suspects after parking his vehicle, and they began shooting at him before fleeing the scene on foot," an official report confirmed.
CCTV footage reportedly depicted a man with dreadlocks and wearing what appeared to be a guard's attire shooting on Stock before making his escape.
The DJ tried to run away after he was hit but succumbed to his injuries on the opposite side of the road.
Police added that Stock had an gun that was not fired and nothing was taken during the assault.
Key evidence, like cartridges, were found at the location.
Authorities have requested members of the public who may have witnessed the attack to contact them.
"Our information indicates they covered significant ground after the attack, and police have been tracking them to establish their destination," added an official.
His family member, Nicole Stock, stated the relatives are devastated to come to terms with the loss.
"I am devastated. I am shattered," she stated.
"It is clear he was a representative for countless citizens. He was a fearless commentator about issues not many people were willing to discuss. This is a devastating blow."
She requested the citizens to refrain from sharing graphic images from the incident, explaining this was an extremely painful time, above all for Stock's young family.
Stock was the host of Ngicel' iVisa, a television program that was broadcast on a South African TV network.
In addition to his media career, Stock was engaged in various commercial activities, including security provision, offering elite guarding services and securing prestigious gatherings across South Africa.
He was also reportedly involved in property management and assisted with tenant removals.
His killing has sent the nation reeling and prompted an outpouring of tributes from his followers, the authorities and various organizations.
A cabinet official commented he was angry and saddened by Stock's killing.
"He was forthright without fear or favour. He even criticized me and my policies as a minister. He was a shining model of who we should be," the minister added.
A political leader commented the "audacious attack of DJ Warras in broad daylight is a trauma for all South Africans".
A broadcasting director noted that "Stock was more than just a face of a reality series. He was a talented storyteller, a true devotee of sound and a generous spirit who brought happiness and vitality to every performance. His artistic passion left an profound impact."
In a statement, the network he worked for affirmed Stock was known for his charisma, approachability and quick humor, adding that his memory "will live on".
South Africa, the continent's most industrialised nation, has one of the globally elevated murder rates, driven by property crime and gang violence, with some 63 people losing their lives per day in a recent six-month period, based on government figures.
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