Assata Shakur, a prominent Black liberation activist and American fugitive convicted of killing a New Jersey state trooper, has died in Havana at the age of 78. Shakur escaped to Cuba over 45 years ago and lived there as a political refugee. Her death was attributed to health ailments and old age. The family of the slain trooper expressed a measure of closure but acknowledged the ongoing pain of their loss. Shakur maintained her innocence throughout her life, claiming an unfair trial.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.