Lifestyle

Warrick Stock murdered at 40: DJ Warras’s life and legacy remembered

Karishma Dipa|Published

Warrick Stock, also known as DJ Warras, was shot and killed in Johannesburg.

Image: X

“He was the most loving, compassionate, friendly, open, decent human being, and it is a tragedy beyond belief.”

This is how entrepreneur Robert Hersov, a friend of murdered media personality Warrick Stock, also known as DJ Warras, described the killing of the radio host and television presenter.

Affectionately known as the Shady Lurker, the 40-year-old was shot and killed outside Carlton City on Tuesday, December 16.

It is believed that after parking his vehicle at the centre in Johannesburg’s inner city, the former "Live AMP" TV presenter was approached by three unknown suspects, who opened fire before fleeing on foot.

Police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko confirmed the news: "It is alleged that the victim was approached by three unknown suspects after parking his vehicle, and they opened fire at him before fleeing the scene on foot. The motive for the shooting is currently unknown. No arrest has been made yet, and the investigation is underway."

Following the news of the popular broadcaster’s murder, Hersov took to X, describing Warras as “a brother and friend.” “Warras, we love you, we miss you, may you RIP, brother,” he added.

Meanwhile, The Kiffness shared a black-and-white image of the slain media personality on X, captioned: “RIP Warras @Shady_Lurker.”

Podcaster and media personality Sol Phenduka also posted a cryptic message earlier on Tuesday, just minutes before Warras’s death was confirmed: “Eh this country. The violence is too much. I hope the news I'm hearing isn't true…” In a subsequent post, he added: “Ey man Warras bro.”

Social media accounts such as @GodPenuel wrote: “DJ Warras, Warrick Stock. Loving father. Deep South African patriot. A passionate Zulu man. A fucking awesome brother. Hard worker. No-nonsense straight talker. Love you bro. Fuck…”

@Mzansimagic posted: “DJ Warras was more than a host. Thank you for the laughter, the stories, and the unforgettable Mzansi Magic moments. Your legacy will live on.”

While @mjimero wrote: “They can kill you, but they will never take the patriotism in you. Rest, Patriot. We will remember you not only as our beloved DJ but as a patriot who was fighting against the crimes happening in this country. Rest well, DJ Warras.”

Born in Durban, Warras began his media career in radio, rising to prominence in 2008 when he joined YFM. He later moved to 5FM and joined SABC1’s music show Live AMP in 2012, serving as a long-standing presenter for about six years.

In recent years, he co-hosted The Shady PHodcast with fellow DJ PH and, earlier this year, hosted the local reality TV show Ngicel’iVisa.

He is survived by his three sons.