Johannesburg has been rocked by the tragic news of the death of popular radio and club DJ Warrick Stock, professionally known as DJ Warras. The 40-year-old media personality was shot dead in the city centre on Tuesday afternoon, sending shockwaves across South Africa.
According to the South African Police Service, Stock was approached by three unknown suspects outside Zambesi House, near Carlton Centre. One of the suspects, reportedly dressed in what appeared to be a security uniform, opened fire on him before fleeing on foot. Stock attempted to escape but fell in the street. Police confirmed that he had an unused firearm on him and that nothing was stolen during the attack. Cartridges and other key evidence were recovered at the scene. The motive for the shooting remains unknown, and no arrests have been made. Authorities are appealing to eyewitnesses to come forward with information.
Stock was a well-known radio and television presenter, podcaster, and the host of Ngicel' iVisa, a reality show that aired on Mzansi Magic. Beyond his media career, he was involved in private security, providing elite guarding and VIP protection services, and securing high-profile events across South Africa. He also engaged in property management and occasionally assisted with building evictions.
Fred Kekana, a local police chief, explained that Stock had spent several hours at Zambesi House overseeing the installation of security systems at the premises, which had been controversially occupied by unknown individuals. CCTV footage reportedly shows one of the suspects opening fire while Stock tried to flee.
The incident has sparked an outpouring of grief and tributes from colleagues, fans, and political figures. Nicole Stock, his sister, said, “I am in shock. I don't have words. I am shattered. He spoke out bravely about issues not many people were willing to speak about. This is a tremendous loss.” She appealed to the public not to share graphic images or videos from the scene, highlighting the trauma it would cause to his three sons.
Government officials also paid tribute to Stock. South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, said, “He spoke his truth without fear or favour. He even spoke up against me and my decisions as a minister. He was a pure example of who we should be.” Mmusi Maimane, leader of the Build One party, described the “brazen murder of DJ Warras in broad daylight as a shock for all South Africans.” Shirley Adonisi, director of Mnet channels, added that Stock was “a talented storyteller, a passionate music lover and a warm soul who brought joy and energy to every moment on screen.”
Mzansi Magic also commemorated Stock’s legacy, describing him as charismatic, warm, and witty, and stated that his contributions to South African entertainment would be remembered for years to come.
The incident has reignited discussions on South Africa’s security situation. The country has one of the world’s highest murder rates, fueled by gang violence and armed robberies. Police data indicate that between April and September, an average of 63 people were killed per day. Many South Africans have expressed concern about safety in urban centres and the increasing boldness of criminals in public spaces.
Authorities continue to investigate Stock’s death, track the suspects, and appeal for information from the public. Meanwhile, the nation mourns the loss of a media personality who left an indelible mark on radio, television, and the entertainment industry.
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