DJ AM, whose real name was Adam Goldstein, has been found dead in his apartment in New York, according to entertainment website TMZ.

The popular website reported police sources as saying the 36-year-old was found in his apartment around 5:20 pm on Friday (local time).

They say there was drug paraphernalia at the scene.

The police were reportedly notified after friends, who had not heard from Goldstein for several days, went to his apartment but could not get a response after knocking on his door.

TMZ first reported the death of pop singer Michael Jackson in June.

DJ AM, the former boyfriend of Nicole Richie, was originally a member of the band Crazy Town - known for their hit song Butterfly.

He has since performed as a DJ for a host of celebrities and featured on albums for Madonna, Papa Roach and Will Smith.

In September 2008 Goldstein was seriously injured in a plane crash with Blink 182 drummer Travis Barker.

The crash killed two crew members and two other passengers.