A renowned South African media personality and entertainer has been fatally gunned down in the metropolis of Johannesburg, causing national outrage across a country grappling with rampant crime.
Warrick Stock, widely recognized as DJ Warras, was shot and killed in the city centre on a Tuesday afternoon.
Authorities reported the 40-year-old entertainer was approached by a trio of assailants, one of whom shot at him before running away.
The motive of the shooting is unknown and no suspects have been apprehended have been made, as per the official statement.
Authorities indicated that Stock was targeted as he was departing from a building close to the Carlton Centre.
He had devoted time at the building managing the setup of safety equipment, which had been controversially occupied by squatters, as per local media.
"Authorities believe the deceased was approached by three unidentified men after he parked his car, and they began shooting at him before escaping on foot," a police statement stated.
Surveillance tape reportedly depicted a individual with dreadlocked hair and wearing what resembled a guard's attire shooting on Stock before making his escape.
The DJ sought to escape after he was shot but succumbed to his injuries across the street.
It was further revealed that Stock had an gun that was not fired and no items were stolen during the attack.
Key evidence, like cartridges, were found at the crime scene.
Police have appealed eyewitnesses who may have have information to come forward.
"Our information indicates they covered significant ground after the attack, and investigators have been tracking them to establish their location," added an official.
His sister, Nicole Stock, said the relatives are devastated to understand the tragedy.
"I am devastated. I am shattered," she stated.
"Everyone understood he was a representative for countless citizens. He was a fearless commentator about issues not many people were ready to discuss. This is a devastating blow."
She requested the community to avoid sharing disturbing footage from the incident, explaining this was an extremely painful time, above all for Stock's children.
Stock was the host of Ngicel' iVisa, a series that aired on a South African digital satellite entertainment channel.
In addition to his role as a presenter, Stock was engaged in various entrepreneurial pursuits, including private security, supplying elite guarding services and managing safety for high-profile events across South Africa.
He was also said to be engaged in real estate operations and assisted with property reclaimations.
His death has sent the nation reeling and prompted an flood of condolences from his followers, the authorities and political parties.
A cabinet official commented he was outraged and heartbroken by Stock's murder.
"He spoke his truth without fear or favour. He even challenged me and my policies as a public official. He was a shining model of who we should be," the minister added.
A political leader commented the "shocking killing of DJ Warras in broad daylight is a shock for all South Africans".
A broadcasting director expressed that "DJ Warras was not merely a TV personality. He was a skilled narrator, a dedicated enthusiast of music and a kind-hearted individual who brought joy and energy to every performance. His commitment to his craft left an lasting impression."
In a communication, the network he worked for said Stock was known for his magnetism, warmth and intelligent commentary, adding that his legacy "will endure".
South Africa, the African economic powerhouse, has one of the globally elevated murder rates, exacerbated by property crime and organized criminal activity, with some 63 people losing their lives per day according to recent data, according to police data.
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