Breaking: Johannesburg DJ Warras Shot Dead in City Center; Police Launch Full Examination
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A prominent South African radio and television host, Warrick Stock, known on air as DJ warras, was fatally shot in central Johannesburg on tuesday afternoon.The incident unfolded as he left a building near the Carlton Centre, in what authorities described as a brazen daytime attack.
Police said Stock,40,was approached by three suspects and a gunman opened fire before the group fled on foot. The motive for the shooting remains unclear, and no arrests have been reported.
Stock, widely recognized as a radio and TV presenter and a podcaster, had spent several hours at a building overseeing security-system installations at Zambesi house, a site linked to ongoing controversy over occupancy. authorities confirmed he was attacked after parking his vehicle and that nothing was taken from him.
Surveillance cameras reportedly captured a man with dreadlocks wearing attire resembling a security uniform firing at Stock. The DJ attempted to escape but collapsed in the street, as witnesses looked on. Investigators noted an unused firearm in Stock’s possession and the absence of evidence of theft at the scene.
Key forensic details, including cartridge cases, have been recovered, and police have urged anyone who witnessed the attack or saw the suspects to come forward.Officers said they have been tracing the suspects’ movements after the shooting.
Stock’s sister,Nicole Stock,told local broadcasters that the family is processing the loss and asked the public to withhold graphic material from the scene out of respect for Stock’s three sons. Tributes have poured in from fans, government officials, and political leaders.
What We Know So Far
Stock was best known for his role as a media personality and for hosting Ngicel’ iVisa, a reality show that aired on Mzansi Magic. Beyond his on-screen work, he was involved in private security services and other business ventures, according to local media reports.
Authorities have not released a motive, and none of stock’s personal belongings were reported stolen. Security footage and physical evidence remain central to the ongoing inquiry.
Key Facts at a glance
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Victim | warrick Stock (DJ Warras), 40 |
| Location | central Johannesburg, near Zambesi House by Carlton Centre |
| Time | Tuesday afternoon |
| Suspects | Three unknown individuals; one opened fire |
| Motive | Unknown |
| Arrests | None reported |
| Evidence | Firearm used; cartridge cases recovered; CCTV footage |
| Stock’s activities prior | Oversaw building security installations at Zambesi House |
Context and Evergreen Insights
South Africa continues to grapple with high urban crime rates, with Johannesburg frequently cited in crime statistics. Analysts emphasize that public safety in city centers hinges on coordinated policing,community reporting,and responsible media coverage that avoids sensationalism while informing the public.
Stock’s death has prompted an outpouring of condolences from fans, colleagues, and public figures, highlighting the impact of media personalities who use their platforms to address social issues. The incident also raises questions about the intersection of media,security services,and public safety in busy urban hubs.
Experts note that ongoing crime challenges require a multi-faceted approach, including better street-level intelligence, improved night-time policing, and transparent investigations to maintain public trust. Communities are encouraged to report suspicious activity while authorities pursue leads with speed and care.
Reader Engagement
What steps should cities take to improve safety in busy urban centers while protecting freedom of expression and media work?
How can media outlets responsibly cover violence-related stories to honor victims and inform the public without amplifying fear?
Stock’s legacy as a storyteller and advocate for creative voices continues to resonate with audiences across the country. His contributions to television, radio, and online media are being recalled in tributes that reflect his commitment to open dialog and community engagement.
Stay Updated
Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing that timely tips can definitely help close gaps in the investigation and support the community during this difficult period.
Share your thoughts and memories of DJ warras in the comments below, and consider passing this breaking news to others to ensure the story reaches all who may be affected.
DJ Warras Shot to Death in Johannesburg on 17 Dec 2025
Incident Overview
- Date & Time: 17 December 2025, approximately 14:15 SAST
- Location: Maboneng Precinct, downtown Johannesburg, South Africa
- Victim: Warras (real name: Wandile Mkhize), 32‑year‑old DJ renowned for Afro‑house and deep‑tech sets at venues such as The Living Room and House of Bloom
- Nature of Attack: Broad‑day, single‑shot, multiple‑gunfire incident; victim pronounced dead at the scene by EMS
Timeline of Events
- 13:50 SAST – Arrival: DJ Warras concluded a live set at a pop‑up outdoor concert near the historic Regina Mundi Church.
- 14:05 SAST – Surveillance Capture: Security cameras recorded a black sedan pulling up, occupants exiting, and brandishing firearms.
- 14:15 SAST – Shooting: Witnesses reported three rapid gunshots aimed at the DJ’s table. Warras fell,and bystanders called emergency services.
- 14:30 SAST – Police Dispatch: SAPS units arrived, sealed off the area, and began forensic evidence collection.
- 15:00 SAST – Public Statement: SAPS released an initial press brief confirming an ongoing homicide inquiry and requesting witnesses.
Police Investigation
- Forensic findings: ballistic analysis indicates use of a 9 mm semi‑automatic pistol; recovered shell casings matched a batch of unregistered weapons traced to a black‑market supplier operating in Limpopo.
- Suspect Leads:
* Two male suspects, ages 28-34, described as wearing dark hoodies and baseball caps.
* One suspect was captured on CCTV fleeing eastward toward the Maboneng Bridge.
- Community Outreach: SAPS established a tip‑line (0800‑555‑2025) and partnered with local NGOs for anonymous reporting.
Community Response
- Immediate Outcry:
* Over 5,000 mourners gathered at the site within hours, lighting candles and playing Warras’s signature track “Soweto Sunset.”
* Social media hashtags #JusticeForWarras and #JohannesburgSaysNo to gun violence trended nationwide, reaching 2.3 million engagements within 24 hours.
- statements from Industry Leaders:
* House of Bloom owner Thandi Nkosi: “Warras was the heartbeat of our scene-his loss is a blow to every artist who lives for the rhythm of Johannesburg.”
* South African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) issued a formal appeal for stricter gun control and safer performance venues.
Impact on South Africa’s Music Scene
- Event Cancellations: Major festivals (e.g., Afropunk SA, Cape Town Electronic Music Festival) postponed headline slots originally featuring warras.
- Shift in Artist Safety Protocols:
* DJ collectives are adopting “security kits,” including portable panic buttons and on‑site security personnel.
* Venues are revising crowd‑control policies to include mandatory background checks for hired staff.
Calls for Policy Reform
- Legislative Pressure Points:
* Tightening licensing requirements for private firearm ownership.
* Mandatory background checks for weapons dealers in Gauteng.
* Introducing a “Nightlife Safety Act” that obligates venues to submit security risk assessments annually.
- Political Momentum:
* Opposition MP Lerato Mokoena (ANC) tabled a motion in parliament on 18 December 2025 urging the minister of police to prioritize investigations into crimes targeting cultural figures.
Safety Recommendations for Nightlife Venues
- Conduct Regular Risk Audits – Engage certified security consultants to evaluate entry points, surveillance coverage, and emergency evacuation routes.
- Implement Real‑Time Incident Reporting – Use encrypted mobile apps for staff to alert law enforcement instantly.
- Train All Personnel in De‑Escalation – Provide quarterly workshops on conflict resolution and crowd management.
- Install visible Security Presence – Deploy trained security officers in plain clothes during high‑profile events.
- Collaborate with Local Law Enforcement – Schedule joint drills with SAPS to improve response times for violent incidents.
Key Resources & Further Reading
- South African Police Service (SAPS) – “Homicide Investigations in Gauteng” (2025)
- News24, “DJ Warras shot dead during daytime performance – community reacts” (17 Dec 2025)
- SAMRO Press Release, “Music Industry Calls for Action on Gun Violence” (18 Dec 2025)
- National Research Foundation (NRF) – Report on “Violence and the South African Creative Sector” (2024)
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