Radio and club DJ Warrick Stock, popularly known as DJ Warras, has been shot and killed in the Johannesburg central business district. He was 40 years old.
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The fatal shooting took place on Tuesday, 16 December 2025, and has sparked widespread shock across South Africa’s entertainment industry and among his supporters. Police have opened a murder case and confirmed that investigations are ongoing, with no arrests made at this stage.
According to information provided by the South African Police Service (SAPS), the incident occurred after the victim parked his vehicle in Johannesburg Central. He was allegedly approached by unknown suspects who opened fire before fleeing the scene on foot. The motive for the killing has not yet been established.
DJ Warras was well known in radio and nightlife circles, where he built a reputation as a skilled DJ and a forthright public figure. Reports suggest that at the time of the incident, he was involved with a private security company and was participating in eviction-related activities when he was shot. These details have not yet been officially confirmed by police and form part of the ongoing investigation.
SAPS spokespersons said detectives are working to piece together the sequence of events that led to the shooting. Authorities have appealed to anyone with information that may assist the investigation to come forward.
Police have confirmed they have video footage of the suspects in the Warrick Stock, known as DJ Warras case. Tune in to #eNCA, channel #DStv403. pic.twitter.com/J8IcvS5toQ
— eNCA (@eNCA) December 16, 2025
The death of DJ Warras has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans, fellow DJs, musicians, and public figures. Many described him as outspoken, passionate, and deeply committed to his work, both as an entertainer and as a commentator on social issues.
His sister, Nicole Stock, speaking to SABC News, said the family was still struggling to come to terms with his death.
“I am still in shock. I don’t have words. I am broken and shattered,” she said. “We know he was a voice for many people around the country. He spoke out bravely about issues that not many people were willing to speak about. This is a tremendous loss.”
She also appealed to members of the public and social media users to act responsibly and avoid sharing graphic images or videos related to the incident.
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“He was a selfless human being,” she said, urging people to respect the family’s privacy during their time of grief.
DJ Warras had gained prominence not only through his work as a radio and club DJ, but also through his willingness to engage publicly on contentious issues. In previous public appearances and interviews, he spoke openly about topics such as alcohol consumption, personal responsibility, and social behaviour, particularly during and after lockdown periods.
DJ Warras , real name Warrick Stock has been shot and killed on Day of Reconciliation in Johannesburg CBD pic.twitter.com/FFbyXKNsK3
— Peché Africa 🇿🇦 (@pmcafrica) December 16, 2025
His views often sparked debate, earning him both strong supporters and vocal critics. However, colleagues have noted that he remained committed to honest discussion and believed strongly in using his platform to encourage accountability and dialogue.
Political leaders have also reacted to the killing. Build One South Africa (BOSA) leader Mmusi Maimane MP condemned the shooting, describing it as a shocking act of violence and extending condolences to the Stock family.
“This is a tragic loss and a reminder of the levels of violence that continue to affect our country,” Maimane said in a statement.
On social media, fans shared memories of DJ Warras’ performances, radio shows, and personal interactions. Many expressed disbelief at the news and frustration at ongoing violent crime, particularly in major urban centres such as Johannesburg.
The incident has once again highlighted concerns about safety in the Johannesburg CBD, an area that remains a key economic and cultural hub but continues to struggle with crime. Violent incidents involving firearms have been a persistent issue, despite increased police visibility and various crime-prevention initiatives.
For those working in the entertainment industry, especially DJs who often operate late at night and move between venues, the risks associated with crime are well known. DJ Warras’ death has renewed calls for improved safety measures, better coordination between private security companies and law enforcement, and stronger oversight of high-risk operations such as evictions.
Evictions, particularly in inner-city areas, have become increasingly contentious in recent years due to economic pressures, housing shortages, and high unemployment. These operations can place security personnel and others involved in volatile situations, sometimes leading to confrontations and violence.
While police have not confirmed whether the shooting was directly linked to an eviction dispute, the circumstances surrounding the incident are being closely examined.
SAPS reiterated that investigations are at an early stage and that detectives are following all possible leads. Ballistics analysis, witness statements, and any available CCTV footage from the area are expected to play a role in the case.
The killing of DJ Warras adds to a growing list of high-profile violent crimes that have drawn public attention and concern. Civil society groups and community leaders have repeatedly called for stronger action to address illegal firearms, organised crime, and gaps in the criminal justice system.
For now, the focus remains on supporting the Stock family and ensuring a thorough investigation is conducted.
Funeral and memorial arrangements had not been announced at the time of publication.
As tributes continue to pour in, many in the entertainment industry have described DJ Warras as someone who was unapologetically himself, deeply engaged with his audience, and committed to speaking his mind. His death has left a noticeable void and has once again forced South Africans to confront the human cost of violent crime.
Police have urged anyone with information related to the shooting to contact their nearest police station or Crime Stop.
Image Courtesy: X
