Written By | TMA Reporter
DJ Warras was shot by a man with dreadlocks in broad daylight, police say
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Johannesburg
Shock and grief swept across South Africa on Tuesday after a well-known radio and club DJ was shot dead in Johannesburg, underscoring the country’s persistent struggle with violent crime.
Warrick Stock, popularly known as DJ Warras, was gunned down in the city centre on Tuesday afternoon. Police said the 40-year-old media personality was approached by three suspects, one of whom opened fire before the group fled on foot. No arrests had been made by the time of reporting, and the motive for the attack remained unclear.
According to police, the incident occurred outside Zambesi House near the Carlton Centre. Stock had reportedly spent several hours at the building overseeing the installation of security systems at premises that had recently been controversially occupied, according to state broadcaster SABC.
“It is alleged that after parking his vehicle, the victim was approached by three unknown suspects who opened fire before fleeing the scene,” the South African Police Service said in a statement.
CCTV footage reviewed by investigators reportedly showed a man with dreadlocks, dressed in what appeared to be a security uniform, firing at Stock before escaping. Police said the DJ attempted to run after being shot but collapsed across the street. An unused firearm was found in his possession, and nothing appeared to have been stolen. Cartridges were recovered at the scene as part of the investigation.
Police have appealed to the public for information, noting that officers were tracking the suspects’ movements after they fled the area.
Stock’s sister, Nicole Stock, told SABC the family was devastated. “I am in shock. I don’t have words. I am shattered,” she said, describing him as a fearless voice on national issues. She also urged the public to refrain from sharing graphic images, citing the impact on his three sons.
DJ Warras was a radio and television presenter, podcaster, and host of Ngicel’ iVisa, a reality show on Mzansi Magic. Beyond broadcasting, he was involved in private security, property management, and event protection services.
His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans, media personalities, and political leaders. Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie described Stock as outspoken and principled, while Build One South Africa leader Mmusi Maimane condemned the killing as a brazen act in broad daylight.
Mzansi Magic and M-Net executives praised Stock’s charisma, creativity, and lasting impact on South African entertainment.
South Africa continues to record one of the world’s highest murder rates, with police data indicating that an average of 63 people were killed daily between April and September, largely due to robberies and gang-related violence.
