A popular South African media personality and entertainer has been murdered in the metropolis of Johannesburg, sending shockwaves across a nation grappling with persistent crime.
Warrick Stock, popularly known as DJ Warras, was gunned down in the downtown area on the afternoon of Tuesday.
Police said the forty-year-old media personality was approached by a trio of assailants, with one shot at him before escaping on foot.
The purpose behind the shooting is unknown and no arrests have taken place, police said.
Police said that Stock was attacked as he was exiting a building in the vicinity of the city center landmark.
He had spent several hours at the site overseeing the installation of security systems, which had been controversially occupied by unknown people, according to reports.
"It is alleged the deceased was confronted by three unknown suspects after he parked his car, and they shot at him before escaping on foot," authorities confirmed.
Surveillance tape reportedly depicted a man with dreadlocks and wearing what resembled a guard's attire shooting on Stock before making his escape.
The DJ sought to escape after he was shot but fell down across the street.
It was further revealed that Stock had an weapon on his person and it was not a robbery during the assault.
Important clues, like spent shells, were recovered from the location.
Officials are asking members of the public who may have witnessed the attack to assist with the investigation.
"Evidence suggests they walked a long distance after the attack, and investigators have been attempting to locate them to find their location," added an official.
His sister, a close relative, stated the loved ones are reeling to understand the tragedy.
"I am in shock. I am shattered," she said.
"It is clear he was a champion for numerous individuals. He was a fearless commentator about subjects not many people were prepared to speak about. This is a tremendous loss."
She appealed to the public to not sharing graphic images from the scene, explaining this was an extremely painful time, particularly for Stock's children.
Stock was the presenter of Ngicel' iVisa, a reality show that aired on a South African digital satellite entertainment channel.
Apart from his work in broadcasting, Stock was engaged in various commercial activities, including security provision, supplying elite guarding services and securing major functions across South Africa.
He was also said to be engaged in property management and participated in building evictions.
His death has sent the nation reeling and led to an flood of condolences from his audience, the government and various organizations.
A cabinet official commented he was angry and saddened by Stock's killing.
"He was forthright boldly and honestly. He even spoke up against me and my decisions as a minister. He was a pure example of who we should be," the minister added.
A party figurehead commented the "brazen murder of DJ Warras in the middle of the day is a shock for all South Africans".
A media executive expressed that "Stock was far beyond a face of a reality series. He was a talented storyteller, a dedicated enthusiast of music and a warm soul who brought happiness and vitality to every appearance. His artistic passion left an indefinable mark."
In a statement, the broadcaster he worked for declared Stock was known for his presence, kindness and intelligent commentary, adding that his legacy "will endure".
South Africa, the African economic powerhouse, has one of the planet's most severe murder rates, fuelled by robberies and syndicate wars, with some 63 people losing their lives per day in a recent six-month period, as per government figures.
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