A popular South African media personality and entertainer has been murdered in the country's largest city Johannesburg, sending shockwaves across a nation struggling with persistent crime.
Warrick Stock, widely recognized as DJ Warras, was gunned down in the city centre on Tuesday afternoon.
Authorities reported the 40-year-old media personality was approached by three individuals, with one shot at him before escaping on foot.
The reason behind the attack has not been established and no one has been arrested have been made, as per the official statement.
Authorities said that Stock was targeted as he was exiting a premises near the Carlton Centre.
He had spent several hours at the building overseeing the installation of security systems, which had been illegally inhabited by squatters, it was reported.
"Authorities believe the deceased was approached by three unidentified men after parking his vehicle, and they opened fire at him before escaping on foot," an official report confirmed.
Surveillance tape showed a individual with dreadlocked hair and clad in what looked like a protective services outfit opening fire on Stock before running away.
The DJ attempted to flee after he was hit but fell down on the opposite side of the road.
Police added that Stock had an unused firearm and no items were stolen during the attack.
Key evidence, like spent shells, were found at the scene.
Authorities have requested members of the public who may have have information to assist with the investigation.
"We know they walked a long distance after the shooting, and police have been tracking them to determine their destination," stated a police chief.
His sister, Nicole Stock, expressed the relatives are devastated to process his death.
"I am in shock. I don't have words," she said.
"Everyone understood he was a representative for countless citizens. He addressed issues courageously about issues not many people were ready to discuss. This is a tremendous loss."
She appealed to the citizens to avoid sharing graphic images from the incident, explaining this was an deeply traumatic time, especially for Stock's children.
Stock was the star of Ngicel' iVisa, a television program that premiered on a popular local digital satellite entertainment channel.
Apart from his media career, Stock was active in various commercial activities, including private security, providing elite guarding services and securing prestigious gatherings across South Africa.
He was also reportedly involved in building administration and participated in property reclaimations.
His death has caused national trauma and led to an flood of condolences from his followers, the government and political parties.
A cabinet official remarked he was furious and grief-stricken by Stock's murder.
"He was forthright fearlessly and impartially. He even challenged me and my decisions as a public official. He was a pure example of who we ought to be," he stated.
A public representative said the "brazen murder of DJ Warras in broad daylight is a tragedy for all South Africans".
A industry leader said that "Stock was more than just a TV personality. He was a talented storyteller, a passionate music lover and a warm soul who brought excitement and dynamism to every appearance. His commitment to his craft left an lasting impression."
In a communication, the channel he worked for said Stock was known for his magnetism, 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, exacerbated by robberies and organized criminal activity, with some 63 people killed each day between April and September, according to police data.
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