A popular South African radio and club DJ has been fatally gunned down in the metropolis of Johannesburg, sending shockwaves across a country struggling with rampant crime.
Warrick Stock, who went by the name DJ Warras, was attacked in the downtown area on Tuesday afternoon.
Authorities reported the forty-year-old media personality was approached by three individuals, one of whom shot at him before running away.
The reason behind the shooting has not been established and no arrests are in custody, as per the official statement.
Law enforcement revealed that Stock was attacked as he was leaving a location in the vicinity of the Carlton Centre.
He had been present for hours at the site supervising the installation of security systems, which had been illegally inhabited by unknown people, it was reported.
"The report indicates the victim was approached by three unknown suspects after parking his vehicle, and they began shooting at him before escaping on foot," a police statement stated.
Surveillance tape showed a suspect with dreadlocked hair and clad in what looked like a protective services outfit opening fire on Stock before fleeing.
The DJ tried to run away after he was shot but succumbed to his injuries across the street.
Police added that Stock had an gun that was not fired and nothing was taken during the attack.
Important clues, like bullet casings, were recovered from the crime scene.
Police have appealed eyewitnesses who may have have information to come forward.
"Evidence suggests they covered significant ground after the attack, and police have been following their trail to find their destination," remarked an authority figure.
His family member, a close relative, stated the family was struggling to understand the tragedy.
"I am in shock. I am shattered," she stated.
"It is clear he was a representative for countless citizens. He was a fearless commentator about topics not many people were willing to discuss. This is a tremendous loss."
She urged the community to not sharing disturbing footage from the incident, saying this was an incredibly difficult time, particularly for Stock's children.
Stock was the star of Ngicel' iVisa, a series that premiered on a popular local TV network.
Apart from his role as a presenter, Stock was involved in various business ventures, including private security, supplying VIP protection services and securing high-profile events across South Africa.
He was also understood to participate in real estate operations and participated in building evictions.
His killing has sent the nation reeling and led to an flood of condolences from his audience, the authorities and political parties.
A cabinet official said he was furious and grief-stricken by Stock's untimely death.
"He was forthright fearlessly and impartially. He even criticized me and my actions as a public official. He was a true embodiment of who we should be," the minister added.
A political leader commented the "audacious attack of DJ Warras in the middle of the day is a shock for all South Africans".
A media executive noted that "DJ Warras was far beyond a face of a reality series. He was a skilled narrator, a true devotee of sound and a warm soul who brought joy and energy to every moment on screen. His commitment to his craft left an lasting impression."
In a communication, the broadcaster he worked for affirmed Stock was known for his magnetism, warmth and sharp wit, adding that his memory "will live on".
South Africa, the continent's most industrialised nation, has one of the planet's most severe homicide statistics, exacerbated by robberies and organized criminal activity, with some dozens of citizens murdered daily according to recent data, according to official statistics.