Wildlife biologist with a passion for sloth conservation and sustainable ecosystems.
A popular South African media personality and entertainer has been shot dead in the country's largest city Johannesburg, triggering widespread grief across a country grappling with entrenched crime.
Warrick Stock, widely recognized as DJ Warras, was attacked in the downtown area on Tuesday afternoon.
Officials stated the forty-year-old media personality was approached by three suspects, with one began shooting at him before escaping on foot.
The purpose behind the attack remains unclear and no one has been arrested are in custody, as per the official statement.
Police revealed that Stock was attacked as he was leaving a premises in the vicinity of the city center landmark.
He had been present for hours at the site overseeing the implementation of security systems, which had been reportedly taken over by unknown people, it was reported.
"The report indicates the man was confronted by three unknown suspects after he parked his car, and they opened fire at him before escaping on foot," authorities said.
Security camera video reportedly depicted a individual with dreadlocked hair and dressed in what appeared to be a security uniform shooting on Stock before making his escape.
The DJ sought to escape after he was wounded but collapsed across the street.
Police added that Stock had an unused firearm and nothing was taken during the incident.
Key evidence, like spent shells, were recovered from the scene.
Authorities have requested eyewitnesses who may have witnessed the attack to contact them.
"Evidence suggests they walked a long distance after the attack, and officers have been tracking them to establish their location," added an official.
His sister, Nicole Stock, stated the loved ones are reeling to understand the tragedy.
"Words fail me. I cannot express the pain," were her words.
"Everyone understood he was a voice for many people. He addressed issues courageously about issues not many people were prepared to discuss. This is a tremendous loss."
She urged the public to not sharing graphic images from the scene, saying this was an deeply traumatic time, above all for Stock's three sons.
Stock was the presenter of Ngicel' iVisa, a television program that aired on a popular local broadcasting platform.
Beyond his media career, Stock was involved in various entrepreneurial pursuits, including protective services, supplying VIP protection services and protecting prestigious gatherings across South Africa.
He was also reportedly involved in property management and assisted with property reclaimations.
His killing has sent the nation reeling and prompted an outpouring of tributes from his audience, the authorities and various organizations.
A cabinet official remarked he was furious and grief-stricken by Stock's killing.
"He was forthright boldly and honestly. He even challenged me and my decisions as a minister. He was a true embodiment of who we ought to be," he stated.
A political leader commented the "shocking killing of DJ Warras in broad daylight is a shock for all South Africans".
A industry leader noted that "Stock was far beyond a face of a reality series. He was a talented storyteller, a dedicated enthusiast of music and a generous spirit who brought happiness and vitality to every performance. His dedication to creativity left an indefinable mark."
In a statement, the broadcaster he worked for affirmed Stock was known for his charisma, kindness and intelligent commentary, adding that his legacy "will live on".
South Africa, the continent's most industrialised nation, has one of the globally elevated murder rates, fuelled by property crime and organized criminal activity, with some 63 people murdered daily between April and September, as per official statistics.
Wildlife biologist with a passion for sloth conservation and sustainable ecosystems.