News of September 26, 2025
Assata Shakur Dies in Cuba
Wanted by the FBI, in asylum in Cuba: Tupac's godmother Assata Shakur died at 78. She remained politically controversial to the end.
On September 26, 2025, the death of Assata Shakur became known: Tupac’s godmother died in Cuba at the age of 78. Cuban health authorities cited complications and advanced age. The former Black Panther activist was born Joanne Chesimard.
Convicted in 1973, in Asylum Since 1984
In 1973, Shakur was convicted in New Jersey for the killing of police officer Werner Foerster, which she denied to the end. She escaped from prison, lived in Cuba from 1984, and received political asylum there. The FBI placed her on its most-wanted list as the first woman.
In the United States, she remains controversial. For supporters, she is a symbol of resistance; for authorities and police associations, a convicted murderer.