A heart shattered in the heart of Jo’burg: Tribute to DJ Warras

ON the morning of Tuesday, 16 December 2025, South Africa’s Day of Reconciliation, a cruel irony unfolded in the heart of Johannesburg.

Warrick Robert Stock, known to a nation as DJ Warras, was brutally murdered while doing what too few dare: standing against the tide of criminality overtaking hijacked buildings in the CBD.

As ActionSA declared in their condemnation: “He was actively involved in tackling the rampant criminality across hijacked buildings in Johannesburg’s CBD at the time of his murder.” His death was not random; it was an assassination meant to silence a voice that refused to cower. But as ActionSA vowed: “If the thugs behind his assassination believe they have stopped the fight… they are gravely mistaken.”

Born in Durban, DJ Warras forged a multifaceted career spanning more than 15 years across radio, television, digital media, and live performance. His journey began at YFM, where his confident presence and natural connection with youth set him apart.

He rose to national prominence as host of 5FM’s The 5th Element, an evening show that blended music, conversation, and culture into something deeply South African. As the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture affirmed, he was “a dynamic and respected force in South Africa’s media and creative industries”, whose work “reflected the spirit, humour and concerns of a generation”.

His face became familiar to millions through SABC1’s Live AMP, where he amplified local talent and celebrated homegrown creativity. Later, on Mzansi Magic’s Ngicel’iVisa, he brought warmth, honesty, and relatability to complex human stories. And alongside DJ PH on The Shady PHodcast, he delivered “candid conversations, sharp social commentary and fearless engagement with contemporary issues” — qualities that defined his very character.

But beyond the microphones and cameras, Warras remained a working DJ, bringing “energy and authenticity” to clubs across the country, honouring South Africa’s rich and diverse musical soul. More than a performer, he was a mentor, “always willing to open doors and encourage new voices”, as noted by the Department.

To his family, he was everything. In their heart-wrenching statement, the Stock Family wrote with “indescribable heartbreak, deep sorrow, and overwhelming shock” that their beloved Warrick — a devoted son, loving and proud father to three young children, cherished brother, and uncle — had been taken “in the most senseless way.” At 40, he was “the heart and anchor” of his family.

The family statement read: “With indescribable heartbreak, deep sorrow, and overwhelming shock, the Stock family, together with the rest of South Africa, learned of the tragic and untimely passing of their beloved Warrick “Warras” Stock. The senseless nature of his passing has left his family devastated, broken, and struggling to imagine a world without him.

“A devoted son, a loving and proud father, a cherished brother, and uncle Warrick (40) was the heart and anchor of his family. Affectionately known as DJ Warras, also known as ‘The Shady Lurker’, 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.

“Warrick leaves behind his three young children, his mother, and his siblings, whose lives have been irrevocably changed by this profound loss. As the family begins the painful journey of mourning, they humbly ask for privacy, compassion, and understanding during this unimaginably difficult time. They also 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 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.”

His loss is not theirs alone. The DA, through DA Gauteng Shadow MEC for Community Safety Crezane Bosch, described him as “outspoken, fearless, and unapologetic”, a man who “used his voice, platform, and lived experience to speak honestly about the realities facing our communities”. His murder, they said, “lays bare how unsafe our country has become” and reveals “how shockingly easy it is to take a human life in broad daylight without fear of accountability”.

Now, as investigations continue, ActionSA calls for “a tough, no-nonsense leader” to reclaim Johannesburg from “illegal foreigners, drug dealers and criminals who have no respect for the law.” The DA demands a swift investigation, insisting: “We will be closely monitoring this case to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.”

“Rest in Power, DJ Warras”

* Sizwe Dlamini is editor of the Sunday Independent. The views expressed do not reflect those of IOL or Independent Media.

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