A prominent South African radio and club DJ has been murdered in the nation's economic hub Johannesburg, causing national outrage across a country grappling with persistent crime.
Warrick Stock, widely recognized as DJ Warras, was gunned down in the downtown area on Tuesday afternoon.
Authorities reported the 40-year-old media personality was approached by three suspects, one of whom began shooting at him before running away.
The reason of the incident has not been established and no arrests have been made, according to authorities.
Authorities revealed that Stock was attacked as he was leaving a building in the vicinity of the Carlton Centre.
He had spent several hours at the property overseeing the implementation of security systems, which had been controversially occupied by unidentified individuals, according to reports.
"Authorities believe the man was confronted by three unidentified men after he parked his car, and they began shooting at him before escaping on foot," an official report confirmed.
CCTV footage reportedly depicted a man with dreadlocked hair and dressed in what looked like a security uniform shooting on Stock before running away.
The DJ tried to run away after he was wounded but fell down on the opposite side of the road.
Officials noted that Stock had an weapon on his person and nothing was taken during the assault.
Crucial forensic evidence, like spent shells, were discovered at the scene.
Authorities have requested anyone who saw the event who may have witnessed the attack to come forward.
"We know they walked a long distance after the shooting, and police have been attempting to locate them to establish their location," added an official.
His family member, a close relative, stated the family was struggling to come to terms with the loss.
"I am in shock. I am shattered," she said.
"It is clear he was a representative for countless citizens. He spoke out bravely about subjects not many people were willing to speak about. This is a tremendous loss."
She appealed to the community to refrain from sharing graphic images from the scene, noting this was an deeply traumatic time, above all for Stock's three sons.
Stock was the host of Ngicel' iVisa, a series that premiered on a South African digital satellite entertainment channel.
Beyond his media career, Stock was engaged in various entrepreneurial pursuits, including security provision, providing high-level security services and securing high-profile events across South Africa.
He was also reportedly involved in real estate operations and assisted with building evictions.
His death has sent the nation reeling and prompted an flood of condolences from his audience, the government and political parties.
A cabinet official commented he was furious and grief-stricken by Stock's killing.
"He spoke his truth fearlessly and impartially. He even spoke up against me and my decisions as a public official. He was a pure example of who we ought to be," he stated.
A political leader stated the "brazen murder of DJ Warras in broad daylight is a trauma for all South Africans".
A media executive expressed that "Stock was far beyond a face of a reality series. He was a gifted communicator, a true devotee of sound and a kind-hearted individual who brought excitement and dynamism to every appearance. His commitment to his craft left an lasting impression."
In a communication, the network he worked for declared Stock was known for his charisma, kindness and intelligent commentary, adding that his influence "will live on".
South Africa, the continent's most industrialised nation, has one of the planet's most severe homicide statistics, driven by property crime and organized criminal activity, with some 63 people murdered daily between April and September, as per police data.