Oscar Pistorius arrives in court for bail hearing

Oscar Pistorius attends court in Pretoria on the same day as Reeva Steenkamp’s funeral

15:14 19 February 2013

Olympic and Paralympic athlete Oscar Pistorius arrived at court on Tuesday for his bail hearing, following the death of 30-year-old Reeva Steenkamp. The sprinter turned up at the court in Pretoria, South Africa, early Tuesday morning.

 

Mr. Pistorius’ hearing happens to be on the same day as the funeral which is being held for Ms. Steenkamp. It is understood that her family and friends will attend a private ceremony on Tuesday, 19th February, 2013.

The bail hearing comes after the 26-year-old sportsman, who is also known as ‘Blade Runner’, was charged with the murder of Ms. Steenkamp who was shot dead on Thursday last week. The court session will consider Mr. Pistorius’ bail terms as well as the murder trial.

Based on reports, prosecutors are expected to say whether they will charge the paralympian with murder or premeditated murder. If Mr. Pistorius is found guilty of murder he could face a prison sentence of at least 10 years, premeditated murder would carry a life sentence.

 

When the news concerning the double amputee first broke last week, there were many reports which stated the woman was supposedly mistaken for an intruder. Although, it is thought that this concept has since been rejected by some.

 

Mr. Pistorius, whose legs were amputated below the knee because of problems he suffered from, is the world record holder for the T44 200metres and 400metres.