South Africa Mourns Popular DJ Warras Following Shocking Murder in Johannesburg

Wed Dec 17 2025 17:48:56 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

DJ Warras, a beloved South African media personality and DJ, was shot dead in Johannesburg, raising concerns about escalating violence in the city.

Warrick Stock, known professionally as DJ Warras, was murdered in broad daylight in Johannesburg. The 40-year-old DJ was shot by an assailant who fled the scene. Authorities are seeking public assistance in the investigation as the motive behind the attack remains unclear. Stock was celebrated for his contributions to South African media and was known for his vocal stance on various issues.

A popular South African radio and club DJ has been shot dead in the country's largest city, Johannesburg, sending shockwaves across the nation grappling with entrenched crime.

Warrick Stock, popularly known as DJ Warras, was gunned down in the city centre on Tuesday afternoon. Police said the 40-year-old media personality was approached by three suspects, one of whom opened fire on him before fleeing on foot.

The motive of the shooting is unknown and no arrests have been made, police said.

Stock was a well-known radio and TV presenter and a podcaster in South Africa. Fred Kekana, a local police chief, stated that Stock was attacked outside Zambesi House near Carlton Centre.

He had spent several hours overseeing the installation of security systems at the premises, which had been controversially occupied by unknown people.

It is alleged the victim was approached by three unknown suspects after parking his vehicle, and they opened fire at him before fleeing the scene on foot, the South African Police Service (SAPS) said in a statement.

CCTV footage revealed a man with dreadlocks and dressed in what appeared to be a security uniform opening fire on Stock before fleeing, according to police.

The DJ attempted to escape after being shot but collapsed across the street. Notably, he had an unused firearm on him, and nothing was taken during the attack.

Police recovered key evidence, including cartridges, at the scene and have appealed to eyewitnesses for information on the attackers.

His sister Nicole Stock expressed her disbelief, stating, I am in shock. I don't have words. I am shattered. We know he was a voice for many people around the country. He spoke out bravely about issues not many people were willing to speak about. This is a tremendous loss.

DJ Warras was not only known for his media presence but also for his involvement in various business ventures, including private security and property management.

His murder has prompted widespread mourning, with tributes pouring in from fans, government officials, and political leaders who recognized his impact on South African culture. Minister Gayton McKenzie lamented the loss, stating, He spoke his truth without fear or favour.

South Africa, facing one of the highest murder rates globally, continues to struggle with violence and crime, raising concerns over public safety.