A popular South African media personality and entertainer has been murdered in the country's largest city Johannesburg, causing national outrage across a country grappling with persistent crime.
Warrick Stock, widely recognized as DJ Warras, was gunned down in the city centre on Tuesday afternoon.
Authorities reported the forty-year-old entertainer was approached by three individuals, one of whom opened fire on him before fleeing on foot.
The purpose of the shooting is unknown and no one has been arrested are in custody, police said.
Police revealed that Stock was attacked as he was exiting a building close to the city center landmark.
He had spent several hours at the building overseeing the installation of safety equipment, which had been illegally inhabited by unidentified individuals, according to reports.
"The report indicates the deceased was approached by three unidentified men after parking his vehicle, and they opened fire at him before running from the location on foot," an official report confirmed.
Security camera video reportedly depicted a suspect with dreadlocks and dressed in what appeared to be a security uniform shooting on Stock before running away.
The DJ attempted to flee after he was wounded but collapsed on the opposite side of the road.
It was further revealed that Stock had an unused firearm and no items were stolen during the assault.
Important clues, like spent shells, were found at the crime scene.
Authorities have requested members of the public who may have have information to assist with the investigation.
"We know they covered significant ground after the attack, and police have been tracking them to establish their location," remarked an authority figure.
His sister, a close relative, expressed the loved ones are reeling to understand the tragedy.
"I am in shock. I am shattered," she said.
"We know he was a voice for many people. He spoke out bravely about subjects not many people were prepared to tackle. This is a profound tragedy."
She appealed to the public to refrain from sharing disturbing footage from the scene, saying this was an extremely painful time, particularly for Stock's young family.
Stock was the presenter of Ngicel' iVisa, a series that was broadcast on a popular local broadcasting platform.
Beyond his role as a presenter, Stock was active in various entrepreneurial pursuits, including security provision, offering VIP protection services and protecting high-profile events across South Africa.
He was also reportedly involved in building administration and assisted with building evictions.
His murder has caused national trauma and triggered an wave of remembrances from his followers, the authorities and various organizations.
A government minister remarked he was angry and saddened by Stock's murder.
"He spoke his truth fearlessly and impartially. He even criticized me and my actions as a public official. He was a pure example of who we ought to be," was his tribute.
A party figurehead commented the "brazen murder of DJ Warras in the middle of the day is a tragedy for all South Africans".
A broadcasting director expressed that "Stock was more than just a TV personality. He was a skilled narrator, a dedicated enthusiast of music and a warm soul who brought excitement and dynamism to every appearance. His artistic passion left an lasting impression."
In a release, the broadcaster he worked for said Stock was known for his presence, warmth and sharp wit, adding that his memory "will be remembered".
South Africa, the African economic powerhouse, has one of the globally elevated homicide statistics, driven by theft-related violence and gang violence, with some dozens of citizens killed each day according to recent data, according to government figures.