DJ Warras Laid to Rest Amid Tears and Tributes as Murder Suspects Face Court

By National News Desk December 24, 2025

Family, friends, and colleagues gathered yesterday at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Rosebank, Johannesburg, to bid a final farewell to Warrick “DJ Warras” Stock, the beloved radio presenter, podcaster, and media personality who was tragically gunned down last week. The 40-year-old, affectionately known as “The Shady Lurker,” was laid to rest in an emotional service filled with heartfelt tributes highlighting his love for family, his patriotism, and his fearless voice.

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Rosebank – Immaculate Conception Catholic Church Est.1936

Caption: The Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Rosebank, where DJ Warras’s funeral service was held.

Stock was fatally shot on December 16, 2025, in broad daylight outside the Zambezi Building (also referred to as Zambesi House) opposite the Carlton Centre in Johannesburg’s CBD. Police reports indicate he was approached by three assailants after leaving the building, where he had been overseeing security installations. One suspect opened fire, and the group fled on foot. CCTV footage captured the incident, showing a shooter possibly dressed in a security uniform.

Investigations point to a possible link with Stock’s work in private security and property management, particularly his involvement in reclaiming hijacked buildings plagued by criminal syndicates. Reports reveal that in the months prior, Stock had obtained five protection orders against individuals who threatened him and his staff. Johannesburg Public Safety MMC Mgcini Tshwaku described the killing as a “targeted hit,” noting the dangers faced by those combating building hijackings.

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Johannesburg building fire: Misery of gang-hijacked towers comes …

Caption: A hijacked building in Johannesburg’s CBD, illustrative of the urban decay Stock worked to address.

In a breakthrough announced on Monday, Gauteng police arrested two suspects in Soweto. They have been charged with murder and are scheduled to appear in the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court today, Christmas Eve. Police spokesperson Brigadier Brenda Muridili confirmed the arrests, praising the swift action of the Serious and Violent Crimes unit. The Gauteng provincial government welcomed the development, calling Stock’s murder a “line in the sand” in the fight against crime syndicates controlling hijacked properties.

At yesterday’s funeral, longtime friend Arnold Eckersley, who grew up with Stock in Vryheid, KwaZulu-Natal, delivered a moving eulogy. “He had respect and love for all people and connected effortlessly with them,” Eckersley said. “From an early age, it was evident that Warrick was a natural storyteller. He made friends easily, and his friendships were real. He was a loyal friend, always willing to help.”

Eckersley portrayed Stock as a patriot unafraid to speak his mind. “He was unafraid to speak his mind when something did not sit well with him.” Despite seeing each other less as adults, their bond remained strong, rooted in deep family values. “Every time we connected, it was always clear that Warrick deeply loved and respected his family.”

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FROM THE ARCHIVE | DJ Warras on fatherhood, speaking Zulu and more …

Caption: Warrick “DJ Warras” Stock in a portrait capturing his charismatic presence.

Addressing Stock’s three young sons directly, Eckersley said: “To Warrick’s boys: Your dad loved you deeply and was so proud of you.” He concluded: “Warrick lived fully, he loved deeply, he challenged thinking. He told stories that connected us and brought people together. His impact will live on through his children, his family, and all of us who were lucky enough to know him.”

Other tributes emphasized Stock’s humour, even in grief. Family members honoured his light-hearted spirit, while colleagues recalled his sharp wit on air. Notable attendees included Pearl Thusi, Lootlove, DJ Shimza, and podcast co-host Phindile “Gcobe PH” Madubela. The service featured calls to “fight for our home,” echoing Stock’s passion for community and positivity.

Stock’s career spanned radio (YFM, 5FM), television (hosting on Mzansi Magic), and podcasting, where his no-filter style earned him a devoted following. Beyond entertainment, he ran a security firm providing VIP protection and event security, often highlighting issues like inner-city decay.

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DJ Warras, the Shady Lurker, with no filter and pulling no punches.

Caption: DJ Warras in action during a podcast or broadcast session.

Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie paid tribute earlier, calling Stock a “pure example of who we should be” for speaking truth fearlessly. Political figures like Mmusi Maimane condemned the “brazen murder,” urging action against urban crime.

Stock’s family has requested privacy for a private cremation scheduled for today. His death has reignited national debates on violent crime, hijacked buildings, and safety in Johannesburg.

As mourners left the church, videos captured tearful goodbyes, underscoring the profound loss.

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Funeral Etiquette –

Caption: Family and friends mourning during a funeral service in South Africa.

DJ Warras’s legacy as a storyteller, father, and advocate endures, inspiring calls for justice and change in a nation mourning one of its vibrant voices.