A renowned South African radio and club DJ has been shot dead in the metropolis of Johannesburg, causing national outrage across a country battling entrenched crime.
Warrick Stock, who went by the name DJ Warras, was attacked in the city centre on the afternoon of Tuesday.
Officials stated the 40-year-old media personality was accosted by three suspects, one of whom shot at him before running away.
The purpose of the attack is unknown and no suspects have been apprehended are in custody, police said.
Law enforcement said that Stock was targeted as he was leaving a location in the vicinity of the city center landmark.
He had been present for hours at the building overseeing the implementation of security systems, which had been controversially occupied by unidentified individuals, according to reports.
"It is alleged the victim was confronted by three unidentified men after parking his vehicle, and they shot at him before escaping on foot," a police statement said.
Security camera video showed a suspect with dreadlocked hair and wearing what looked like a guard's attire shooting on Stock before running away.
The DJ tried to run away after he was shot but fell down across the street.
Police added that Stock had an weapon on his person and nothing was taken during the incident.
Important clues, like cartridges, were recovered from the location.
Police have appealed members of the public who may have witnessed the attack to contact them.
"Our information indicates they covered significant ground after the attack, and investigators have been attempting to locate them to establish their destination," stated a police chief.
His sister, Nicole Stock, expressed the loved ones are reeling to understand the tragedy.
"I am devastated. I don't have words," she stated.
"Everyone understood he was a voice for many people. He was a fearless commentator about issues not many people were ready to speak about. This is a devastating blow."
She appealed to the community to not sharing graphic images from the incident, explaining this was an extremely painful time, above all for Stock's three sons.
Stock was the star of Ngicel' iVisa, a reality show that premiered on a popular local broadcasting platform.
In addition to his role as a presenter, Stock was involved in various entrepreneurial pursuits, including security provision, offering elite guarding services and managing safety for major functions across South Africa.
He was also said to be engaged in building administration and was involved in building evictions.
His murder has shocked the country and triggered an outpouring of tributes from his fans, the authorities and various organizations.
A government minister remarked he was furious and grief-stricken by Stock's killing.
"He was forthright boldly and honestly. He even challenged me and my actions as a public official. He was a shining model of who we must aspire to be," he stated.
A public representative commented the "shocking killing of DJ Warras in broad daylight is a trauma for all South Africans".
A industry leader said that "DJ Warras was more than just a TV personality. He was a gifted communicator, a true devotee of sound and a generous spirit who brought happiness and vitality to every appearance. His commitment to his craft left an profound impact."
In a communication, the broadcaster he worked for affirmed Stock was known for his presence, warmth and intelligent commentary, adding that his legacy "will endure".
South Africa, the African economic powerhouse, has one of the planet's most severe homicide statistics, exacerbated by property crime and gang violence, with some over sixty individuals killed each day according to recent data, based on police data.