US: Paparazzo Killed Taking Pics Of Bieber's Car

Pop star Justin Bieber has called for new laws to protect people from the paparazzi after a photographer was killed taking pictures of his sports car.

The 18-year-old's white Ferrari attracted the attention of an unnamed paparazzo when it pulled up on the side of a street in Los Angeles.

The photographer was struck by another vehicle as he crossed Sepulveda Boulevard, close to Getty Centre Drive.

He died in hospital soon after.

In a statement, Mr Bieber, whose hits include Baby and Boyfriend, said: "While I was not present nor directly involved with this tragic accident, my thoughts and prayers are with the family of the victim.

"Hopefully this tragedy will finally inspire meaningful legislation and whatever other necessary steps to protect the lives and safety of celebrities, police officers, innocent public bystanders and the photographers themselves."

A friend of Mr Bieber was driving the car when it was pulled over by the California Highway Patrol, according to the Los Angeles Times.

A spokesman for the Los Angeles Police Department said no charges are likely to be filed against the driver, who struck the photographer as he was returning to his car.