A popular South African media personality and entertainer has been shot dead in the metropolis of Johannesburg, causing national outrage across a country struggling with entrenched crime.
Warrick Stock, widely recognized as DJ Warras, was shot and killed in the central business district on Tuesday afternoon.
Authorities reported the 40-year-old presenter was accosted by a trio of assailants, one of whom opened fire on him before escaping on foot.
The reason of the shooting is unknown and no arrests have taken place, according to authorities.
Police revealed that Stock was attacked as he was exiting a building close to the city center landmark.
He had devoted time at the building managing the implementation of security systems, which had been reportedly taken over by squatters, it was reported.
"Authorities believe the victim was confronted by three unknown suspects after he parked his car, and they shot at him before running from the location on foot," an official report confirmed.
Security camera video showed a suspect with dreadlocks and wearing what looked like a security uniform firing shots on Stock before running away.
The DJ sought to escape after he was hit but collapsed a short distance away.
Officials noted that Stock had an gun that was not fired and no items were stolen during the attack.
Crucial forensic evidence, like cartridges, were found at the location.
Authorities have requested eyewitnesses who may have have information to contact them.
"Our information indicates they walked a long distance after the attack, and investigators have been attempting to locate them to determine their location," added an official.
His family member, Nicole Stock, expressed the family was struggling to process his death.
"I am in shock. I am shattered," she said.
"We know he was a voice for many people. He spoke out bravely about subjects not many people were prepared to speak about. This is a devastating blow."
She urged the public to avoid sharing explicit content from the incident, explaining this was an deeply traumatic time, particularly for Stock's three sons.
Stock was the presenter of Ngicel' iVisa, a reality show that was broadcast on a popular local TV network.
In addition to his work in broadcasting, Stock was involved in various commercial activities, including security provision, supplying high-level security services and protecting prestigious gatherings across South Africa.
He was also reportedly involved in property management and assisted with tenant removals.
His murder has shocked the country and prompted an outpouring of tributes from his fans, the government and various organizations.
A senior figure said he was outraged and heartbroken by Stock's untimely death.
"He expressed his views boldly and honestly. He even spoke up against me and my actions as a minister. He was a pure example of who we must aspire to be," he stated.
A public representative commented the "audacious attack of DJ Warras in the middle of the day is a trauma for all South Africans".
A media executive said that "DJ Warras was far beyond a face of a reality series. He was a skilled narrator, a dedicated enthusiast of music and a warm soul who brought happiness and vitality to every appearance. His artistic passion left an profound impact."
In a statement, the broadcaster he worked for declared Stock was known for his magnetism, approachability and intelligent commentary, adding that his legacy "will endure".
South Africa, the continent's most industrialised nation, has one of the globally elevated rates of violent death, fuelled by theft-related violence and gang violence, with some over sixty individuals murdered daily according to recent data, according to government figures.
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