South African media and music fans were left reeling yesterday after the shocking murder of renowned radio DJ and television presenter Warwick “DJ Waras” Stock. The 40-year-old broadcaster was shot dead in broad daylight in Johannesburg, the country’s largest city, sparking widespread grief and outrage.
The attack took place near the city centre, outside the Zambezi House, close to the Carlton Centre. According to local police, three suspects approached Stock shortly after he had parked his vehicle. One of the attackers, reportedly disguised in a security guard’s uniform, fired several shots at him before the assailants fled on foot. Despite Stock attempting to escape, he collapsed in the street and succumbed to his injuries.
Police have not yet determined the motive for the attack, and no arrests have been made. Senior police official Fred Kekana stated that Stock had been overseeing security arrangements at the building, which had recently been occupied by unidentified individuals. Surveillance footage shows the shooter fleeing the scene immediately after opening fire. A firearm was reportedly found near Stock, though it appears nothing was taken during the attack. Authorities have recovered bullet casings and other vital evidence from the scene, and they have urged witnesses to come forward.
Stock’s sister, Nicole Stock, described the tragedy as “unbearable” and appealed to the public to refrain from sharing graphic images or videos online, especially in consideration of his three children.
Warwick Stock was widely recognised as a dynamic presence on radio and television, a podcaster, and an entrepreneur involved in private security, VIP protection, and property management. His work had made him a respected figure both within and beyond South Africa’s entertainment industry. Tributes have poured in from government officials, political leaders, and celebrities alike. Culture Minister Gauten Mckenzie praised Stock’s courage, noting that he “spoke the truth without fear.”
The incident has once again highlighted the growing concerns around urban safety in South Africa and the risks faced by public figures and private security personnel. Police continue to search for the suspects, appealing to anyone with information to assist in the investigation.
Incident Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Victim | Warwick “DJ Waras” Stock, 40 |
| Occupation | Radio DJ, TV presenter, podcaster, security consultant |
| Date & Time | Tuesday afternoon, exact time not disclosed |
| Location | Outside Zambezi House, near Carlton Centre, Johannesburg |
| Attackers | Three suspects, one disguised as security guard |
| Method | Firearm; victim shot multiple times |
| Outcome | Victim fatally wounded; suspects fled on foot |
| Motive | Under investigation |
| Police Status | Investigation ongoing; no arrests yet |
| Family Statement | Sister requests privacy and restraint from sharing graphic images |
| Public Reaction | Widespread grief, tributes from politicians, celebrities |