A renowned South African media personality and entertainer has been shot dead in the metropolis of Johannesburg, causing national outrage across a nation battling rampant crime.
Warrick Stock, widely recognized as DJ Warras, was gunned down in the central business district on the afternoon of Tuesday.
Officials stated the 40-year-old media personality was approached by three individuals, one of whom began shooting at him before fleeing on foot.
The reason behind the attack is unknown and no suspects have been apprehended have been made, as per the official statement.
Police indicated that Stock was ambushed as he was departing from a building close to the city center landmark.
He had been present for hours at the site supervising the implementation of safety equipment, which had been controversially occupied by squatters, according to reports.
"It is alleged the victim was confronted by three unknown suspects after he parked his car, and they opened fire at him before running from the location on foot," authorities said.
CCTV footage reportedly depicted a individual with dreadlocks and wearing what appeared to be a protective services outfit shooting on Stock before fleeing.
The DJ sought to escape after he was shot but fell down across the street.
Police added that Stock had an gun that was not fired and it was not a robbery during the incident.
Crucial forensic evidence, like spent shells, were recovered from the scene.
Police have appealed members of the public who may have seen the suspects to contact them.
"Our information indicates they traveled on foot after the attack, and police have been attempting to locate them to determine their destination," remarked an authority figure.
His family member, a close relative, expressed the relatives are devastated to come to terms with the loss.
"I am in shock. I am shattered," were her words.
"We know he was a voice for many people. He spoke out bravely about issues not many people were ready to speak about. This is a tremendous loss."
She urged the public to avoid sharing graphic images from the scene, explaining this was an deeply traumatic time, particularly for Stock's three sons.
Stock was the presenter of Ngicel' iVisa, a series that aired on a South African TV network.
In addition to his work in broadcasting, Stock was involved in various business ventures, including security provision, offering elite guarding services and protecting high-profile events across South Africa.
He was also reportedly involved in property management and was involved in tenant removals.
His killing has sent the nation reeling and led to an wave of remembrances from his followers, the authorities and various organizations.
A senior figure said he was furious and grief-stricken by Stock's killing.
"He expressed his views boldly and honestly. He even criticized me and my policies as a public official. He was a pure example of who we should be," the minister added.
A party figurehead 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 far beyond a face of a reality series. He was a talented storyteller, a true devotee of sound and a warm soul who brought excitement and dynamism to every moment on screen. His commitment to his craft left an indefinable mark."
In a statement, the channel he worked for said Stock was known for his presence, approachability and quick humor, adding that his legacy "will endure".
South Africa, the African economic powerhouse, has one of the world's highest homicide statistics, exacerbated by robberies and syndicate wars, with some dozens of citizens losing their lives per day according to recent data, as per official statistics.
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