George Zimmerman, the neighbourhood watch volunteer who shot dead an unarmed black teenager in a case that reignited racial tensions in America, has described the incident as "God's plan".

Mr Zimmerman is charged with murder after shooting 17-year-old Trayvon Martin in Sanford, Florida, in February. He admits killing Trayvon but says he fired in self-defence.

Fox News broadcast an interview with the 28 year-old this week in which he was asked if he regretted leaving his vehicle on the evening in question or regretted carrying a gun. "No Sir, I feel that it was all God's plan," he said.

Mr Zimmerman once again apologised to Trayvon's parents and said he prayed for them every day. But his comments about God's plan drew an angry response from the couple.