Justin Bieber released a statement this morning expressing his sympathies to the family of a paparazzo killed while trying to score a shot of the pop star sat in his Ferrari off California's Interstate 405.

Except Bieber wasn't even in the car at the time: According to TMZ, the vehicle was being driven by a friend of the singer when it was pulled over by the California Highway Patrol near Getty Center Drive.

The unnamed photographer reportedly crossed Sepulveda Boulevard to get a closer look at the Ferrari's occupants, but was told by officers to return to his car, which was parked across the street.

While making his way back, the man was fatally struck by oncoming traffic.

"While I was not present nor directly involved with this tragic accident, my thoughts and prayers are with the family of the victim," Bieber said in his statement. "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."

No arrests have been made, but the driver who hit the paparazzo was briefly detained for questioning.

UPDATE: TMZ claims the deceased photog — identified as Chris Guerra — was hot on the Ferrari's tail because he believed Bieber was inside, smoking marijuana.

[screengrab via CNN]