A popular South African media personality and entertainer has been murdered in the metropolis of Johannesburg, sending shockwaves across a country grappling with entrenched crime.
Warrick Stock, popularly known as DJ Warras, was attacked in the city centre on Tuesday afternoon.
Officials stated the 40-year-old entertainer was confronted by three individuals, one of whom began shooting at him before escaping on foot.
The motive behind the incident remains unclear and no one has been arrested have taken place, police said.
Authorities indicated that Stock was targeted as he was exiting a premises in the vicinity of the Carlton Centre.
He had been present for hours at the building supervising the setup of safety equipment, 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 began shooting at him before escaping on foot," an official report confirmed.
Surveillance tape showed a suspect with dreadlocked hair and clad in what appeared to be a security uniform opening fire on Stock before running away.
The DJ tried to run away after he was wounded but collapsed across the street.
Officials noted that Stock had an gun that was not fired and no items were stolen during the assault.
Crucial forensic evidence, like bullet casings, were found at the scene.
Police have appealed members of the public who may have seen the suspects to assist with the investigation.
"Evidence suggests they traveled on foot after the shooting, and officers have been attempting to locate them to establish their location," added an official.
His family member, a close relative, stated the relatives are devastated to come to terms with the loss.
"Words fail me. I am shattered," she stated.
"We know he was a representative for countless citizens. He spoke out bravely about topics not many people were ready to speak about. This is a devastating blow."
She appealed to the public to refrain from sharing graphic images from the scene, saying this was an deeply traumatic time, particularly for Stock's three sons.
Stock was the star of Ngicel' iVisa, a television program that premiered on a South African TV network.
In addition to his media career, Stock was active in various entrepreneurial pursuits, including protective services, supplying high-level security services and protecting major functions across South Africa.
He was also reportedly involved in property management and was involved in building evictions.
His death has caused national trauma and triggered an outpouring of tributes from his fans, the authorities and political parties.
A cabinet official remarked he was angry and saddened by Stock's killing.
"He was forthright fearlessly and impartially. He even criticized me and my decisions as a minister. He was a shining model of who we ought to be," the minister added.
A public representative commented the "audacious attack of DJ Warras in the middle of the day is a trauma for all South Africans".
A broadcasting director expressed that "Stock was more than just a TV personality. He was a gifted communicator, a dedicated enthusiast of music and a kind-hearted individual who brought joy and energy to every appearance. His artistic passion left an profound impact."
In a statement, the channel he worked for said Stock was known for his charisma, warmth and sharp wit, adding that his influence "will live on".
South Africa, the continent's most industrialised nation, has one of the globally elevated murder rates, exacerbated by property crime and organized criminal activity, with some dozens of citizens murdered daily in a recent six-month period, according to police data.
Lena is a tech journalist with over a decade of experience covering consumer electronics and emerging technologies.