Tributes continue to pour in for Warrick Stock, popularly known as DJ Warras, who was shot and killed in the Johannesburg central business district on Tuesday. Family members, friends, colleagues, political parties and members of the public have expressed condolences following the killing of the well-known radio personality and businessman.
According to reports, DJ Warras was shot shortly after parking his vehicle and getting out of the car in the Johannesburg CBD. It is alleged that three unknown men approached him and opened fire before fleeing the scene on foot. His body was found lying on the concrete at the scene. Family members were later seen cleaning blood from the area where he was killed.
The shooting occurred in an area fitted with closed-circuit television cameras. Members of the public gathered at the scene following the incident as police cordoned off the area to conduct investigations. The motive for the shooting has not been confirmed.
The Gauteng South African Police Service confirmed that a murder case has been opened following the death of a 40-year-old man who was fatally shot in Johannesburg Central on Tuesday, 16 December 2025.
Provincial police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko said the victim was approached by three unknown suspects after parking his vehicle. She said the suspects opened fire and fled the scene on foot.
“The motive for the shooting is currently unknown. No arrest has been made yet, and the investigation is underway,” Sibeko said.
Police have appealed to members of the public who may have information that could assist with the investigation to contact the Crime Stop Line on 08600 10111.
DJ Warras was widely known in the entertainment industry and beyond. He worked as a DJ at several radio stations, including YFM and 5FM, and was also the owner of a security company. In a recent interview, he revealed that he was a father of three children.
He was also admired for speaking isiZulu fluently and had previously said he wanted his children to learn vernacular languages in order to relate to all sides of their families. Many people who paid tribute to him described him as outspoken, fearless and committed to issues affecting communities.
ActionSA condemned the killing in a statement issued by party president Herman Mashaba on Tuesday. The party said reports indicated that DJ Warras was involved in efforts to address criminal activity in hijacked buildings in the Johannesburg CBD at the time of his death.
ActionSA said the killing was a brutal act and expressed condolences to the family and friends of the deceased. The party said criminal groups responsible for violent acts posed a threat to law-abiding citizens, particularly those who actively confront crime.
The uMkhonto weSizwe Party also released a statement expressing condolences to the Stock family, colleagues, friends and the broader media fraternity. The party described DJ Warras as a respected radio and television personality, DJ, businessman, and family man who used his platforms to raise concerns about social challenges facing the country.
The MK Party said he had publicly spoken about issues related to hijacked buildings in the Johannesburg CBD and said it was disturbing that he was reportedly killed outside one of these buildings. The party called for stricter measures to address hijacked buildings, organised crime and corruption, as well as protection mechanisms for whistleblowers and community activists.
The Democratic Alliance in Gauteng also condemned the killing and called for a swift investigation. In a statement issued by DA Gauteng Shadow MEC for Community Safety Crezane Bosch, the party extended condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of DJ Warras.
The DA described him as outspoken and firm in his views and said his killing highlighted concerns about violent crime. The party said it would closely monitor the investigation to ensure accountability and justice.
Community members and supporters have continued to gather and share messages of condolence as investigations continue. Police have not released further details regarding the suspects or possible motives.
DJ Warras’ death has prompted renewed calls from political parties and the public for progress in investigations and for those responsible to be brought before the courts.
