Beloved South African Entertainer DJ Warras Shot Dead at 40 in Shocking Johannesburg CBD Attack

Tragic Loss: Beloved South African Entertainer DJ Warras Shot Dead at 40 in Johannesburg CBD Shooting

Johannesburg, December 17, 2025

 South Africa’s entertainment industry is reeling from the shocking and senseless murder of Warrick Stock, better known as DJ Warras, who was gunned down in broad daylight in the Johannesburg Central Business District on Tuesday afternoon. The 40-year-old radio personality, television presenter, club DJ, and outspoken social commentator was fatally shot near the iconic Carlton Centre, in what authorities describe as a brazen attack that has left family, friends, colleagues, and fans devastated.

Police confirmed that DJ Warras had just parked his vehicle when he was approached by unknown suspects who opened fire. Reports vary slightly on the details—some indicate three suspects fled on foot after the shooting, while others suggest a single gunman with dreadlocks fired a shot before escaping, possibly in a drive-by. CCTV footage has reportedly identified a short man with dreadlocks as the prime suspect, but no arrests have been made, and the motive remains unknown. Speculation has linked the incident to DJ Warras’s involvement in private security operations, particularly evictions at allegedly hijacked buildings in the CBD, through his company JT VIP: Elite Guarding & VIP Protection Services. However, police are keeping an open mind and investigating all leads.

The scene was heartbreaking: family members, including his sister Nicole Stock, spent hours at the cordoned-off site, even using bottles of water to gently wash blood from the pavement in a quiet act of restoring dignity to the tragic spot. Speaking to media from the crime scene, Nicole appealed for respect and space for the investigation. “We have been here for a couple of hours and we don’t know what to say,” she said, her voice breaking. “We ask South Africans to please give the police space to complete their investigation. He was a good guy, selfless, and he loved everybody.”

News of the killing spread rapidly on social media, amplified by the chilling fact that DJ Warras had been active on X (formerly Twitter) just hours earlier. According to celebritynews his final posts included commentary on crime and law enforcement issues topics he frequently addressed with passion and candor. Friends and public figures quickly confirmed the tragedy, with businessman Rob Hersov posting a emotional video tribute: “I’ve just heard the news that my brother, my friend… was murdered today in Johannesburg. He was the most loving, compassionate, friendly, honest, open, decent human being, and it is a tragedy beyond belief. Warras, we love you, we miss you, may you rest in peace, brother.”

Born in Durban, 

Warrick Stock moved to Johannesburg as a teenager to pursue his dreams in the vibrant world of media and music. His career began humbly on YFM in 2008, starting with graveyard shifts before rising to daytime prominence. He later joined 5FM, where his charismatic energy and sharp wit made him a favorite among listeners. Transitioning to television, DJ Warras became a household name as a long-standing presenter on SABC1’s popular music show Live AMP for about six years, starting in 2012. His infectious personality shone through as he interviewed artists, hosted segments, and connected with a younger audience hungry for authentic South African voices.

According to timelives Beyond the airwaves, DJ Warras was a staple in the club scene, spinning sets that blended house, hip-hop, and local flavors, 

energizing crowds at festivals and venues across the country. 

In recent years, he expanded his footprint with The Shady PHodcast, co-hosted with DJ PH, where candid discussions on culture, politics, and entertainment drew loyal followers. His television comeback included hosting Mzansi Magic’s reality show Ngicel’iVisa, which premiered in October 2025, showcasing his versatility and enduring appeal.

What set DJ Warras apart was his unapologetic outspokenness. He used his platform to critique societal issues, from crime and corruption to accountability in government and justice systems. In the weeks leading up to his death, he commented on high-profile cases, including those involving controversial figures, earning him admiration as a “digital watchdog” and a patriotic voice unafraid to speak truth to power. Politician Mmusi Maimane described him as “one of the most outspoken and patriotic young South Africans,” while Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie noted his fearlessness, even when criticizing ministerial decisions.
Tributes poured in from across the industry and beyond. Fellow broadcaster DJ PH called him “an amazing person, full of energy, a solid gent.” Fans echoed this, remembering him as a “ball of energy” who found humor in life’s challenges and promoted unity among South Africans. Humanitarian Ulrich Janse van Ruuren praised his passion for people and the country. The outpouring highlighted not just his professional achievements but his personal qualities: compassionate, humorous, and deeply caring 

           DJ Warras’s death adds to a grim pattern of violence targeting South African entertainers, particularly DJs. He joins a somber list that includes DJ Sumbody and others gunned down in recent years, raising renewed concerns about safety for public figures and those involved in private security amid the ongoing crisis of hijacked buildings in urban centers.
As investigations continue, the nation mourns a multifaceted talent cut down in his prime. At 40, DJ Warras had so much more to give—new music projects, more podcasts, perhaps more television ventures. His legacy endures in the beats he spun, the conversations he sparked, and the lives he touched with his boundless enthusiasm and love for South Africa.

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His sister Nicole’s words resonate deeply: 

focus on who he was a selfless human who believed in laughter, unity, and standing up for what’s right. In a country grappling with daily violence, DJ Warras’s voice may have been silenced, but his impact echoes on.

 Rest in peace, Warras. South Africa will miss you profoundly.