January 3, 2013 15:47

Justin Bieber calls for tougher laws following paparazzi death

Singer wants further legislation following death of man trying to photograph him

Photo: PA

Justin Bieber has called for tougher laws involving paparazzi photographers following the death of a man hit by a car whilst trying to take pictures of the teen star.

As reported earlier this week, an unnamed man, believed to be a paparazzo, received fatal injuries after being run over on the side of Sepulveda Boulevard near Getty Center Drive. It is believed the man was taking pictures of Bieber's white Ferrari, though the teen pop star was not in the vehicle at the time.

Issuing a statement following the death of the man, Bieber said (in a statement released by Island Def Jam Music Group), "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."

Meanwhile, it has been reported that Lil Twist, a rapper friend of Bieber's, was driving the Ferrari which was pulled over for speeding, providing a photo opportunity for the photographer. "This photographer evidently had been following the white Ferrari and when it was pulled over after sundown he stopped, parked and crossed the street to snap photos," Los Angeles police Detective Charles Walton said.

"The CHP officer told him numerous times that it wasn't safe for him to be there and to return to his vehicle," Det Walton added. "It would have been very difficult for her to see him."

The Los Angeles Times quoted LA police officer James Stoughton as saying that the photographer died in a nearby hospital shortly after the crash on Tuesday night (Jan 1).

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