Johannesburg Reels After Murder of DJ Warras
Johannesburg – The Johannesburg CBD was brought to a standstill on Tuesday as police launched an investigation into the murder of Warrick “DJ Warras” Stock, the former radio DJ and producer. The 40-year-old was gunned down outside the Carlton Centre, according to police reports.
Gauteng police spokesperson Captain Tinswalo Sibeko confirmed that officers were at the scene and that further details would be released once verified. Sibeko stated that the incident occurred after Stock parked his vehicle.
"It is alleged that the victim was approached by three unknown suspects after parking his vehicle, and they opened fire at him before fleeing the scene on foot," Sibeko said. "The motive for the shooting is currently unknown. No arrest has been made yet, and the investigation is underway."
Parts of Commissioner Street were cordoned off as police and forensics officials combed the vicinity for clues.
The news of Stock's death has been met with an outpouring of grief. His sister, Nicole Stock, was present at the scene, visibly distraught.
“I’m still in shock. I haven’t processed it officially. I’m broken. I’m shattered,” she said, describing him as an incredible father and brother. Nicole added that the family was speechless and still coming to terms with the tragedy.
Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has also expressed his condolences to the Stock family. "DJ Warras was a patriot. He was a lover of his country. He spoke his truth, without fear or favour, and even criticised me for some of my decisions as a Cabinet Minister. He did this, even though I was close to him," McKenzie said.
Humanitarian and activist, Ulrich Janse Van Vuuren, remembered Stock as a caring person and a South African patriot, saying, "Always viewed DJ Warras as someone who passionately cared about people and South Africa. Such tragic news of his untimely passing. Rest in peace. My condolences to his family."
Stock, who had previously worked at 5FM and CliffCentral, was known for being outspoken on social and political issues.
Nicole described her brother as selfless, loving, and a family man. “He would take his shoes off his feet, his clothes off his body for somebody … he was very giving; an open-handed human being.” She added that his murder was a tremendous loss, “not only to us as a family, but to the nation as well”.
Reports suggest that Stock, who was also a property manager, was attacked while conducting a building inspection in the city centre. The incident reportedly took place within the Carlton Centre business precinct, where a strong police and private security presence was observed following the shooting.
Details surrounding the murder remain sketchy, and investigations are ongoing.
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