WASHINGTON (AP) - US officials say Mr Malcolm Shabazz, grandson of political activist Malcolm X, has died in Mexico.

Two US officials say Mr Shabazz was killed on Thursday morning in Mexico City. They spoke anonymously because they were not authorised to speak publicly about the case.

The Shabazz family publicist Terrie Williams confirms the death and says the family will issue a statement later.

Mr Shabazz was the son of Qubilah Shabazz, daughter of Malcolm X and his wife Betty Shabazz. In 1997, 12-year-old Malcolm Shabazz set a fire at Mrs Betty Shabazz's home. She died from severe burns, and he served four years in juvenile detention.

In recent years, Mr Shabazz has said he was writing a memoir and speaking against youth violence.

Malcolm X was assassinated in 1965.