A prominent South African media personality and entertainer has been shot dead in the metropolis of Johannesburg, causing national outrage across a country struggling with entrenched crime.
Warrick Stock, widely recognized as DJ Warras, was attacked in the city centre on the afternoon of Tuesday.
Authorities reported the forty-year-old entertainer was approached by three suspects, with one began shooting at him before running away.
The reason of the incident is unknown and no suspects have been apprehended have taken place, as per the official statement.
Police said that Stock was attacked as he was leaving a location close to the city center landmark.
He had devoted time at the site overseeing the installation of security systems, which had been illegally inhabited by unknown people, it was reported.
"Authorities believe the deceased was approached by three unidentified men after parking his vehicle, and they shot at him before running from the location on foot," authorities confirmed.
Surveillance tape reportedly depicted a individual with dreadlocked hair and wearing what looked like a guard's attire firing shots on Stock before making his escape.
The DJ sought to escape after he was wounded but collapsed a short distance away.
It was further revealed that Stock had an unused firearm and it was not a robbery during the attack.
Crucial forensic evidence, like spent shells, were found at the scene.
Officials are asking eyewitnesses who may have seen the suspects to assist with the investigation.
"Our information indicates they traveled on foot after the attack, and police have been attempting to locate them to find their destination," remarked an authority figure.
His family member, a close relative, expressed the relatives are devastated to understand the tragedy.
"Words fail me. I don't have words," she said.
"It is clear he was a champion for numerous individuals. He was a fearless commentator about topics not many people were ready to speak about. This is a profound tragedy."
She appealed to the public to refrain from sharing disturbing footage from the scene, explaining this was an extremely painful time, particularly for Stock's children.
Stock was the star of Ngicel' iVisa, a television program that was broadcast on a popular local digital satellite entertainment channel.
Beyond his media career, Stock was engaged in various business ventures, including protective services, offering elite guarding services and managing safety for major functions across South Africa.
He was also said to be engaged in real estate operations and participated in property reclaimations.
His murder has caused national trauma and prompted an wave of remembrances from his audience, the authorities and political parties.
A cabinet official said he was outraged and heartbroken by Stock's murder.
"He was forthright boldly and honestly. He even criticized me and my decisions as a minister. He was a pure example of who we should be," he stated.
A political leader stated the "shocking killing of DJ Warras in the middle of the day is a tragedy for all South Africans".
A broadcasting director expressed that "DJ Warras was not merely a face of a reality series. He was a talented storyteller, a dedicated enthusiast of music and a generous spirit who brought joy and energy to every performance. His commitment to his craft left an indefinable mark."
In a release, the network he worked for said Stock was known for his magnetism, warmth and intelligent commentary, adding that his legacy "will live on".
South Africa, the African economic powerhouse, has one of the world's highest murder rates, exacerbated by robberies and syndicate wars, with some dozens of citizens losing their lives per day in a recent six-month period, according to government figures.
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