Tragic Loss: South African DJ Warras Shot Dead in Daylight Attack

Wed Dec 17 2025 18:33:15 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The untimely death of popular DJ Warrick Stock, aka DJ Warras, in Johannesburg has reignited concerns over crime in South Africa, as tributes pour in from fans and colleagues.

DJ Warras, a beloved figure in the South African media landscape, was fatally shot in Johannesburg by unknown assailants in broad daylight. The motive remains unclear, and the incident has sparked national outrage as his family and fans mourn his loss. Tributes highlight his contributions to music and media, along with calls for justice in a country grappling with high crime rates.

A popular South African radio and club DJ has been shot dead in the country's largest city, Johannesburg, sending shockwaves across the nation grappling with entrenched 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 on him before fleeing on foot. The motive of the shooting is unknown and no arrests have been made, police said.

Stock was a well-known radio and TV presenter and a podcaster in South Africa.

Fred Kekana, a local police chief, said Stock was attacked outside Zambesi House near Carlton Centre. Stock had spent several hours at the building overseeing the installation of security systems at the premises, which had been controversially occupied by unknown people, reports the state-run SABC.

CCTV footage showed a man with dreadlocks and dressed in what looked like a security uniform opening fire on Stock before fleeing, said Kekana. The DJ attempted to escape but fell to the ground after being shot. He was found with an unused firearm on him and nothing was taken during the attack.

Local authorities have appealed to witnesses to come forward as police track the suspects' movements post-attack. Stock's sister expressed deep anguish over her brother's murder, calling it a tremendous loss for their family and the community.

Stock's contributions to South Africa's entertainment scene have garnered widespread tributes, and many reflect on his ability to speak out on important issues. As one of the nation’s prominent voices, his death is felt as not just a personal loss but a blow to the community at large.

This tragic incident highlights the ongoing struggles of safety and crime in South Africa, where murder rates remain alarmingly high.