A renowned South African radio and club DJ has been shot dead in the metropolis of Johannesburg, sending shockwaves across a country grappling with rampant crime.
Warrick Stock, widely recognized as DJ Warras, was attacked in the downtown area on Tuesday afternoon.
Police said the forty-year-old presenter was approached by three individuals, with one opened fire on him before fleeing on foot.
The reason of the attack has not been established and no arrests are in custody, police said.
Authorities indicated that Stock was attacked as he was leaving a location close to the Carlton Centre.
He had devoted time at the property overseeing the setup of security systems, which had been reportedly taken over by unknown people, as per local media.
"The report indicates the victim was approached by three unidentified men after parking his vehicle, and they opened fire at him before escaping on foot," authorities said.
Surveillance tape reportedly depicted a suspect with dreadlocks and dressed in what looked like a protective services outfit opening fire on Stock before fleeing.
The DJ sought to escape after he was wounded but fell down a short distance away.
Officials noted that Stock had an gun that was not fired and it was not a robbery during the incident.
Important clues, like bullet casings, were recovered from the crime scene.
Police have appealed anyone who saw the event who may have witnessed the attack to come forward.
"Evidence suggests they walked a long distance after the shooting, and investigators have been tracking them to find their destination," stated a police chief.
His family member, Nicole Stock, stated the relatives are devastated to come to terms with the loss.
"I am devastated. I cannot express the pain," she said.
"It is clear he was a champion for numerous individuals. He spoke out bravely about issues not many people were willing to tackle. This is a profound tragedy."
She urged the citizens to not sharing disturbing footage from the incident, explaining this was an extremely painful time, especially for Stock's three sons.
Stock was the presenter of Ngicel' iVisa, a television program that aired on a popular local broadcasting platform.
In addition to his work in broadcasting, Stock was active in various commercial activities, including security provision, supplying elite guarding services and protecting prestigious gatherings across South Africa.
He was also understood to participate in building administration and assisted with tenant removals.
His murder has caused national trauma and led to an wave of remembrances from his followers, the authorities and various organizations.
A senior figure said he was outraged and heartbroken by Stock's untimely death.
"He was forthright fearlessly and impartially. He even challenged me and my decisions as a minister. He was a shining model of who we should be," the minister added.
A party figurehead said the "shocking killing of DJ Warras in broad daylight is a tragedy for all South Africans".
A broadcasting director expressed that "Stock was not merely a face of a reality series. He was a skilled narrator, a passionate music lover and a generous spirit who brought excitement and dynamism to every appearance. His artistic passion left an profound impact."
In a release, the broadcaster he worked for declared Stock was known for his charisma, kindness and sharp wit, adding that his influence "will be remembered".
South Africa, the continent's most industrialised nation, has one of the world's highest murder rates, driven by robberies and organized criminal activity, with some 63 people murdered daily in a recent six-month period, as per police data.