A popular South African media personality and entertainer has been murdered in the country's largest city Johannesburg, sending shockwaves across a country battling entrenched crime.
Warrick Stock, widely recognized as DJ Warras, was shot and killed in the downtown area on Tuesday afternoon.
Police said the 40-year-old entertainer was accosted by three individuals, one of whom opened fire on him before fleeing on foot.
The reason behind the incident has not been established and no arrests have taken place, as per the official statement.
Law enforcement indicated that Stock was targeted as he was exiting a location in the vicinity of the Carlton Centre.
He had spent several hours at the building overseeing the implementation of security systems, which had been controversially occupied by unknown people, according to reports.
"The report indicates the victim was approached by three unidentified men after parking his vehicle, and they shot at him before escaping on foot," a police statement said.
CCTV footage reportedly depicted a individual with dreadlocks and clad in what resembled a security uniform firing shots on Stock before fleeing.
The DJ attempted to flee after he was hit but succumbed to his injuries a short distance away.
It was further revealed that Stock had an weapon on his person and no items were stolen during the attack.
Key evidence, like spent shells, were discovered at the scene.
Authorities have requested anyone who saw the event who may have witnessed the attack to assist with the investigation.
"Evidence suggests they covered significant ground after the attack, and police have been tracking them to determine their whereabouts," stated a police chief.
His sister, a close relative, expressed the loved ones are reeling to understand the tragedy.
"I am devastated. I cannot express the pain," she said.
"Everyone understood he was a representative for countless citizens. He spoke out bravely about issues not many people were ready to discuss. This is a tremendous loss."
She urged the public to not sharing graphic images from the scene, saying this was an extremely painful time, above all for Stock's three sons.
Stock was the star of Ngicel' iVisa, a reality show that premiered on a popular local digital satellite entertainment channel.
Beyond his work in broadcasting, Stock was engaged in various entrepreneurial pursuits, including protective services, providing elite guarding services and managing safety for prestigious gatherings across South Africa.
He was also said to be engaged in real estate operations and was involved in property reclaimations.
His death has shocked the country and led to an flood of condolences from his audience, the authorities and various organizations.
A cabinet official said he was furious and grief-stricken by Stock's untimely death.
"He expressed his views boldly and honestly. He even challenged me and my decisions as a public official. He was a true embodiment of who we ought to be," was his tribute.
A public representative stated the "shocking killing of DJ Warras in the middle of the day is a trauma for all South Africans".
A broadcasting director noted that "Stock was far beyond a face of a reality series. He was a gifted communicator, a dedicated enthusiast of music and a kind-hearted individual who brought happiness and vitality to every appearance. His commitment to his craft left an profound impact."
In a communication, the broadcaster he worked for declared Stock was known for his magnetism, kindness and sharp wit, adding that his influence "will be remembered".
South Africa, the region's leading economy, has one of the planet's most severe murder rates, driven by robberies and gang violence, with some 63 people losing their lives per day according to recent data, as per official statistics.
Mira is a tech journalist and AI researcher with over a decade of experience covering emerging technologies and their societal impacts.