On Reconciliation Day, popular radio DJ, club performer, podcaster, and TV presenter Warrick Stock, known professionally as DJ Warras, was fatally shot in Johannesburg’s CBD opposite the Carlton Centre on the corner of Von Wielligh and Commissioner Streets.
According to police reports and eyewitness accounts, the incident occurred after he parked his vehicle and was inspecting a hijacked building guarded by his private security company, JT VIP Elite Guarding & VIP Protection Services. He was approached by suspects—described in some reports as three men on foot, or possibly involving a drive-by element—who opened fire and fled.
Gauteng police have obtained CCTV footage showing a short male with dreadlocks, dressed in a navy security guard uniform, as the shooter. A murder case has been opened, no arrests have been made yet, and the motive remains under investigation, though it appears linked to building reclamation efforts in the CBD amid ongoing issues with hijacked properties.
Family members, including his sister Nicole Stock, remained at the scene for hours, comforting each other and later using bottled water to clean the pavement in a poignant act of restoring dignity. Nicole appealed for calm, respect for the police investigation, and for the public to remember her brother positively: a selfless, humorous man who loved all South Africans and opposed division, despite speaking out on controversial issues.
DJ Warras, born in Durban and aged around 40, had a prolific career:
- Started at YFM in 2008, rising to prominence.
- Worked at 5FM, Gagasi FM, and Cliff Central.
- Co-hosted SABC1’s Live Amp and recently presented Mzansi Magic’s reality show Ngicel’iVisa.
- Active in podcasting (e.g., The Shady PHodcast) and club DJing.
- Known for his energetic personality, strategic mind, and ventures including security services for high-profile events.
Tributes poured in from the entertainment industry and beyond:
- Fellow DJ PH called him “full of energy” and “a solid gent,” a loving father.
- Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie praised him as fearless, a unifier who loved Zulu and Afrikaans cultures.
- Businessman and friend Rob Hersov described him as compassionate and decent.
- Many highlighted his patriotism and straight-talking style.
His death adds to a troubling pattern of violent killings of South African DJs and celebrities in recent years (e.g., DJ Sumbody).
Police urge anyone with information to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111.