Financial analyst with over a decade of experience in commodity markets, specializing in gold and precious metals investments.
A renowned 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, who went by the name DJ Warras, was attacked in the city centre on Tuesday afternoon.
Police said the 40-year-old media personality was approached by three suspects, with one began shooting at him before escaping on foot.
The reason of the attack is unknown and no suspects have been apprehended are in custody, as per the official statement.
Law enforcement revealed that Stock was targeted as he was departing from a location near the Carlton Centre.
He had devoted time at the property supervising the setup of security systems, which had been reportedly taken over by unidentified individuals, it was reported.
"The report indicates the deceased was confronted by three unknown suspects after parking his vehicle, and they began shooting at him before running from the location on foot," an official report confirmed.
Surveillance tape showed a suspect with dreadlocks and clad in what looked like a protective services outfit shooting on Stock before running away.
The DJ attempted to flee after he was shot but fell down on the opposite side of the road.
Police added that Stock had an unused firearm and it was not a robbery during the assault.
Crucial forensic evidence, like cartridges, were found at the scene.
Authorities have requested members of the public who may have seen the suspects to contact them.
"Evidence suggests they walked a long distance after the shooting, and officers have been attempting to locate them to establish their location," remarked an authority figure.
His sister, a close relative, expressed the relatives are devastated to come to terms with the loss.
"I am in shock. I am shattered," she stated.
"We know he was a voice for many people. He addressed issues courageously about topics not many people were prepared to tackle. This is a tremendous loss."
She appealed to the community to avoid sharing disturbing footage from the incident, saying this was an deeply traumatic time, especially for Stock's three sons.
Stock was the star of Ngicel' iVisa, a reality show that premiered on a South African broadcasting platform.
Beyond his role as a presenter, Stock was active in various business ventures, including private security, offering high-level security services and managing safety for prestigious gatherings across South Africa.
He was also reportedly involved in property management and assisted with building evictions.
His death has shocked the country and led to an outpouring of tributes from his fans, the authorities and political parties.
A government minister said he was furious and grief-stricken by Stock's untimely death.
"He spoke his truth fearlessly and impartially. He even challenged me and my decisions as a minister. He was a pure example of who we ought to be," he stated.
A public representative said the "audacious attack of DJ Warras in the middle of the day is a tragedy for all South Africans".
A broadcasting director noted that "Stock was far beyond a TV personality. He was a skilled narrator, a true devotee of sound and a kind-hearted individual who brought joy and energy to every moment on screen. His commitment to his craft left an indefinable mark."
In a release, the network he worked for said Stock was known for his charisma, warmth and quick humor, adding that his memory "will be remembered".
South Africa, the continent's most industrialised nation, has one of the globally elevated murder rates, exacerbated by theft-related violence and gang violence, with some 63 people losing their lives per day between April and September, as per official statistics.
Financial analyst with over a decade of experience in commodity markets, specializing in gold and precious metals investments.