A renowned South African radio and club DJ has been fatally gunned down in the country's largest city Johannesburg, causing national outrage across a nation battling entrenched crime.
Warrick Stock, popularly known as DJ Warras, was gunned down in the central business district on the afternoon of Tuesday.
Officials stated the forty-year-old presenter was approached by three suspects, with one shot at him before running away.
The motive behind the shooting remains unclear and no arrests are in custody, according to authorities.
Police indicated that Stock was targeted as he was exiting a location close to the city center landmark.
He had spent several hours at the site managing the setup of security systems, which had been illegally inhabited by unknown people, as per local media.
"The report indicates the victim was approached by three unidentified men after he parked his car, and they opened fire at him before escaping on foot," a police statement said.
Security camera video showed a individual with dreadlocked hair and dressed in what resembled a security uniform opening fire on Stock before making his escape.
The DJ tried to run away after he was wounded but succumbed to his injuries across the street.
Police added that Stock had an gun that was not fired and it was not a robbery during the attack.
Important clues, like bullet casings, were recovered from the location.
Officials are asking members of the public who may have have information to come forward.
"Our information indicates they walked a long distance after the attack, and officers have been tracking them to determine their location," stated a police chief.
His family member, Nicole Stock, said the family was struggling to process his death.
"I am in shock. I cannot express the pain," she stated.
"We know he was a voice for many people. He was a fearless commentator about issues not many people were willing to discuss. This is a tremendous loss."
She urged the community to avoid sharing explicit content from the scene, noting this was an incredibly difficult time, above all for Stock's children.
Stock was the presenter of Ngicel' iVisa, a television program that was broadcast on a South African TV network.
In addition to his work in broadcasting, Stock was active in various business ventures, including protective services, supplying elite guarding services and managing safety for prestigious gatherings across South Africa.
He was also reportedly involved in real estate operations and participated in building evictions.
His murder has shocked the country and triggered an flood of condolences from his fans, the government and political parties.
A senior figure commented he was angry and saddened by Stock's murder.
"He spoke his truth boldly and honestly. He even criticized me and my decisions as a minister. He was a true embodiment of who we ought to be," the minister added.
A political leader said the "audacious attack of DJ Warras in the middle of the day is a trauma for all South Africans".
A media executive noted that "DJ Warras was not merely a TV personality. He was a talented storyteller, a passionate music lover and a kind-hearted individual who brought excitement and dynamism to every performance. His dedication to creativity left an profound impact."
In a communication, the channel he worked for said Stock was known for his presence, kindness and sharp wit, adding that his memory "will be remembered".
South Africa, the African economic powerhouse, has one of the world's highest homicide statistics, fuelled by theft-related violence and syndicate wars, with some dozens of citizens killed each day between April and September, according to government figures.
A seasoned gaming analyst with over a decade of experience in casino entertainment and slot machine technology.