JOHANNESBURG – The family of murdered radio personality Warrick “DJ Warras” Stock has broken their silence, releasing an emotional statement describing their “indescribable heartbreak” following the brutal killing of the beloved South African media figure.
In a statement released today, the Stock family expressed their devastation over the senseless murder of the 40-year-old broadcaster, who was gunned down in downtown Johannesburg on Tuesday morning, 16 December.
“With indescribable heartbreak, deep sorrow, and overwhelming shock, the Stock family, together with the rest of South Africa, learned yesterday of the tragic and untimely passing of their beloved Warrick ‘Warras’ Stock,” the family said in their statement.
The family described the former 5FM presenter and Cliff Central host as “the heart and anchor of his family” – a devoted son, loving father, cherished brother, and uncle whose influence extended far beyond his immediate circle.
He had also launched a VIP protection services company and was involved in providing security for major events.
Investigation continues
DJ Warras was gunned down in broad daylight in downtown Johannesburg. CCTV footage shows a man approaching his vehicle shortly after he had parked his car, opening fire on him. DJ Warras was shot four time.
Johannesburg’s MMC for Public Safety, Dr Mgcini Tshwaku, has disclosed that DJ Warras had secured five protection orders against individuals who had allegedly threatened him in the period leading up to his murder.
Speaking to broadcaster Newsroom Afrika, Dr Tshwaku suggested the killing was a targeted assassination linked to the radio personality’s involvement in building security work.
“We believe that this was a hit,” Tshwaku stated. “Normally, in the modus operandi in these scenarios, Warrick was doing the normal thing of securing the building to ensure that people pay. But the building hijackers see that as stopping the income that was coming to them.”
The MMC confirmed he had received the protection orders from DJ Warras’s lawyers, revealing they were issued against five known individuals.
“He had protection orders against five people who are known to us. I have those protection orders, which I received from the lawyers,” Tshwaku explained. “We believe that a price was put on his head because of the work that he was doing, trying to reclaim that building on behalf of the owner.”
The revelations suggest DJ Warras’s murder may have been connected to his legitimate efforts to secure buildings against hijackers, who allegedly viewed his work as a threat to their illegal income streams..
No arrests have been made.
‘The heart and anchor of his family’
Known to fans as DJ Warras and also by his nickname “The Shady Lurker,” Stock leaves behind three young children, his mother, and siblings whose “lives have been irrevocably changed by this profound loss,” according to the family statement.
“He brought light, laughter, and strength into every space he occupied. His influence and kindness extended far beyond his home, and he was deeply loved by his friends, colleagues, and the wider South African entertainment community,” the family wrote.
The statement paints a picture of a man who was much more than his public persona – highlighting his roles as a family man and the devastating impact his loss will have on those closest to him.
Call for privacy and justice
As the family begins what they describe as “the painful journey of mourning,” they have made a heartfelt appeal for privacy during this difficult time.
“They humbly ask for privacy, compassion, and understanding during this unimaginably difficult time,” the statement read, adding that they “respectfully request that the South African Police Service be given the space and support needed to thoroughly investigate this tragic crime, so that justice may be served.”
The family has indicated they are not in a position to appoint a spokesperson at this time, asking instead to be “kept in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate this deep and painful loss.”
Community response provides comfort
The Stock family expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received since news of the radio personality’s death became public.
“The Stock family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love, messages of support, and condolences received since the news of Warrick’s passing was made public. Your kindness, compassion, and solidarity have brought moments of comfort during an incredibly dark time,” they stated.
The family indicated that details regarding memorial and funeral arrangements will be shared at a later date.
A legacy cut short
Stock’s murder has sent shockwaves through South Africa’s entertainment industry, where he was known for his versatility across radio and television. His career spanned over 15 years, from his early days at YFM to his recent work hosting “That Drive” on Gagasi FM and co-hosting “The Shady PHodcast.”
The broadcaster was reportedly preparing for a television comeback and had recently returned to DJing for the 2025 festive season, also taking on hosting duties for a new reality show.
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