A popular South African radio and club DJ has been shot dead in the country's largest city Johannesburg, causing national outrage across a nation grappling with persistent crime.
Warrick Stock, widely recognized as DJ Warras, was attacked in the downtown area on Tuesday afternoon.
Police said the 40-year-old entertainer was accosted by three individuals, with one shot at him before running away.
The reason of the incident has not been established and no arrests have taken place, as per the official statement.
Police revealed that Stock was ambushed as he was departing from a location in the vicinity of the city center landmark.
He had devoted time at the property supervising the installation of security systems, which had been reportedly taken over by squatters, as per local media.
"Authorities believe the deceased was approached by three unknown suspects after parking his vehicle, and they shot at him before escaping on foot," authorities stated.
Surveillance tape showed a suspect with dreadlocks and clad in what resembled a guard's attire shooting on Stock before making his escape.
The DJ attempted to flee after he was hit but succumbed to his injuries on the opposite side of the road.
It was further revealed that Stock had an gun that was not fired and no items were stolen during the attack.
Important clues, like spent shells, were found at the scene.
Authorities have requested members of the public who may have seen the suspects to come forward.
"Our information indicates they traveled on foot after the shooting, and investigators have been attempting to locate them to determine their destination," remarked an authority figure.
His sister, Nicole Stock, stated the family was struggling to understand the tragedy.
"I am in shock. I don't have words," she stated.
"We know he was a representative for countless citizens. He was a fearless commentator about issues not many people were willing to discuss. This is a profound tragedy."
She appealed to the citizens to not sharing disturbing footage from the scene, explaining this was an extremely painful time, above all for Stock's three sons.
Stock was the host of Ngicel' iVisa, a television program that was broadcast on a popular local broadcasting platform.
Apart from his role as a presenter, Stock was engaged in various business ventures, including protective services, offering elite guarding services and protecting major functions across South Africa.
He was also said to be engaged in building administration and participated in property reclaimations.
His death has sent the nation reeling and triggered an flood of condolences from his followers, the government and various organizations.
A cabinet official remarked he was angry and saddened by Stock's killing.
"He spoke his truth fearlessly and impartially. He even spoke up against me and my actions as a minister. He was a true embodiment of who we should be," the minister added.
A public representative commented the "audacious attack of DJ Warras in broad daylight is a shock for all South Africans".
A media executive noted that "DJ Warras was not merely a TV personality. He was a talented storyteller, a true devotee of sound and a warm soul who brought joy and energy to every appearance. His commitment to his craft left an indefinable mark."
In a communication, the broadcaster he worked for said Stock was known for his charisma, approachability and quick humor, adding that his legacy "will be remembered".
South Africa, the region's leading economy, has one of the world's highest homicide statistics, driven by theft-related violence and gang violence, with some over sixty individuals losing their lives per day according to recent data, based on official statistics.