“THE FINAL PHONE CALL” — How DJ Warras Reached Out to His Family Before the Tragic de@th
Sources reveal that just hours before the inciden@, DJ Warras made a call to his eldest child, reminding them of a promise to celebrate a small family milestone. Friends say the tone was calm, almost routine — but behind the words, there was a tension no one could ignore.
Now, investigators are reviewing phone records and timelines, trying to piece together how this ordinary call fits into the extraordinary tragedy that followed…👇👇
The Final Moments: DJ Warras’ Life, Legacy, and the Tragic Shooting That Ended It All
Warrick Robert Stock, better known to South Africans as DJ Warras or “The Shady Lurker,” was a vibrant force in the country’s entertainment industry. Born in Durban, he built a multifaceted career that spanned radio, television, podcasting, and club DJing. His sudden and violent death on December 16, 2025, in the Johannesburg CBD shocked the nation, leaving behind three young children, a grieving family, and countless fans mourning the loss of a man described as fearless, loving, and deeply committed to truth.
DJ Warras rose to prominence as a co-host on SABC1’s influential music show Live AMP, where he showcased South African talent and brought energy to screens across the country. He later became a radio personality on stations like Y FM, and co-hosted the popular Shady PHodcast with DJ PH, known for its candid discussions on social issues, politics, and culture. Beyond media, Warras was a passionate club DJ, mentoring emerging artists and celebrating South Africa’s diverse musical heritage. As noted in an official statement from the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, he was “a dynamic and respected force” who remained committed to authenticity in his work.
In recent years, Warras expanded into business, particularly private security and efforts to reclaim hijacked buildings in Johannesburg’s inner city. This work placed him in dangerous situations, involving disputes with criminal syndicates controlling “bad buildings” plagued by illegal occupations and extortion. Reports indicate he had secured multiple protection orders against individuals linked to these properties, highlighting the threats he faced.
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On the afternoon of December 16, 2025, Warras was in the Johannesburg CBD, working on securing a building known as Zambezi or near the Carlton Centre area. According to police reports and eyewitness accounts, he parked his vehicle and was approached by three suspects. One opened fire, shooting him multiple times in broad daylight. Warras attempted to flee but collapsed across the street. Emergency services responded quickly, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police investigations suggest the killing was a targeted hit, possibly related to his involvement in evicting illegal occupants from hijacked buildings. CCTV footage captured the suspects, and authorities have questioned several individuals, leading to arrests in the days following. Johannesburg’s MMC for Public Safety, Mgcini Tshwaku, confirmed that suspects were spotted on camera, and intelligence pointed to threats from groups refusing to pay rent or vacate properties. Some reports even speculated on mistaken identity or that Warras may have been lured outside during a phone call, though details remain under investigation.
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PICTURES: This is where DJ Warras was murdered | The Citizen
The tragedy has reignited discussions about crime in Johannesburg’s CBD, where hijacked buildings have become hubs for criminal activity. Politicians, including Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie and opposition figures like Mmusi Maimane, condemned the “brazen murder,” calling it a symptom of broader lawlessness. McKenzie, who knew Warras personally, praised his patriotism and fearless commentary.
In the wake of his death, tributes poured in from colleagues, friends, and fans. At his memorial service on December 19, 2025, in Sandton, speakers remembered Warras as a devoted father and a man who “loved aggressively.” Long-time friend Marvin Cohen shared that Warras ended every phone call with “I love you, bye,” a habit that underscored his warm and affectionate nature. His podcast co-host DJ PH described him as someone who always showed up for others, no matter the personal cost. Pearl Thusi and other celebrities attended, emphasizing his role as a mentor and truth-teller.
Warras’ family, including his sister Nicole Stock and his children, spoke movingly at the memorial. His eldest son, Ethan, stood with his younger siblings, a poignant reminder of the young lives forever changed. Nicole expressed anger and devastation, noting that her brother “belonged to a nation” through his voice and actions. The family released statements describing Warras as the “heart and anchor” of their home, a loving father proud of his three children.
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While no verified reports detail a specific “final phone call” to his eldest child hours before the incident—as suggested in some unconfirmed social media rumors—friends and family highlighted Warras’ habitual expressions of love during conversations. One notable tribute came from Tumelo Ramaphosa, son of President Cyril Ramaphosa, who posted about a recent unfinished phone call with Warras, expressing regret and sorrow. Police noted he was on a call when stepping outside moments before the shooting, adding a layer of poignancy to his final moments.
Warras was laid to rest on December 23, 2025, in Rosebank, Johannesburg, coinciding with what would have been a quiet closure for his loved ones just before Christmas. His funeral drew mourners reflecting on a life cut short at 40.
DJ Warras’ death is more than a personal tragedy; it’s a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those confronting urban decay and crime in South Africa. His fearless voice against corruption and injustice, combined with his hands-on efforts to restore order in the inner city, may have made him a target. Yet, his legacy endures in the music he championed, the conversations he sparked, and the love he spread so freely.
As investigations continue and arrests provide hope for justice, the nation remembers a man who lived boldly and loved deeply. In the words echoed at his memorial, Warras gave love consistently, ending calls with affection—a habit that now serves as a bittersweet farewell from those he left behind.
