A renowned South African radio and club DJ has been murdered in the nation's economic hub Johannesburg, triggering widespread grief across a nation battling persistent crime.
Warrick Stock, popularly known as DJ Warras, was gunned down in the city centre on a Tuesday afternoon.
Authorities reported the 40-year-old presenter was approached by three individuals, one of whom began shooting at him before fleeing on foot.
The purpose of the incident is unknown and no suspects have been apprehended have been made, police said.
Police said that Stock was attacked as he was exiting a building close to the Carlton Centre.
He had been present for hours at the site managing the setup of safety equipment, which had been controversially occupied by unidentified individuals, it was reported.
"The report indicates the victim was confronted by three unknown suspects after he parked his car, and they opened fire at him before fleeing the scene on foot," authorities said.
CCTV footage reportedly depicted a suspect with dreadlocked hair and clad in what resembled a protective services outfit opening fire on Stock before fleeing.
The DJ sought to escape after he was wounded but succumbed to his injuries on the opposite side of the road.
Police added that Stock had an unused firearm and it was not a robbery during the assault.
Key evidence, like cartridges, were recovered from the location.
Authorities have requested members of the public who may have have information to assist with the investigation.
"We know they traveled on foot after the shooting, and officers have been attempting to locate them to determine their destination," added an official.
His sister, a close relative, expressed the relatives are devastated to come to terms with the loss.
"I am devastated. I don't have words," she stated.
"We know he was a champion for numerous individuals. He spoke out bravely about subjects not many people were prepared to tackle. This is a devastating blow."
She appealed to the public to not sharing explicit content from the scene, noting this was an incredibly difficult time, above all for Stock's young family.
Stock was the host of Ngicel' iVisa, a reality show that aired on a popular local digital satellite entertainment channel.
Beyond his role as a presenter, Stock was involved in various commercial activities, including protective services, providing elite guarding services and managing safety for high-profile events across South Africa.
He was also said to be engaged in building administration and participated in building evictions.
His murder has sent the nation reeling and led to an outpouring of tributes from his fans, the authorities and political parties.
A senior figure commented he was angry and saddened by Stock's murder.
"He expressed his views without fear or favour. He even spoke up against me and my decisions as a public official. He was a true embodiment of who we must aspire to be," was his tribute.
A political leader commented the "brazen murder of DJ Warras in broad daylight is a shock for all South Africans".
A broadcasting director expressed that "Stock was more than just a face of a reality series. He was a talented storyteller, a passionate music lover and a generous spirit who brought excitement and dynamism to every moment on screen. His artistic passion left an profound impact."
In a statement, the broadcaster he worked for affirmed Stock was known for his presence, warmth and sharp wit, adding that his influence "will live on".
South Africa, the continent's most industrialised nation, has one of the globally elevated rates of violent death, driven by theft-related violence and syndicate wars, with some over sixty individuals murdered daily between April and September, based on official statistics.
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