Oscar Pistorius trial dramatically halted after secret witness shown giving evidence on TV

The Oscar Pistorius murder trial was halted following claims that a TV station breached a court order and broadcasted a picture of a witness.

16:22 04 March 2014

The incendiary Oscar Pistorius murder trial was dramatically adjourned today after a picture of a witness was shown on television.

Prosecutor Gerrie Nel, told the court that an image of a female witness who was supposed to remain anonymous outside of the court was being shown less than 30 minutes into proceedings.  South African TV station eNCA was broadcasting a live audio feed when it used a still photograph of her alongside its report.

Judge Thokozile Masipa called the event ‘very disturbing’ and ordered an immediate investigation. He also warned the media that they will not be treated with soft gloves.

The witness was Michell Burger, a university lecturer who lives near Pistorius’ home. She told the court that she heard “blood curdling” screams followed by four gunshots on the night that Reeva Steenkamp was killed.

Burger is the first witness to contradict Pistorius’ claim as to what happened on February 14 last year. If her testimony was true, it will undermine the Paralympic gold medalist’s claim that he has mistaken Steenkamp for an intruder.

Pistorius previously said that he was the only one who shouted that night thinking that a dangerous intruder made his way to his bathroom.

Barry Roux for the defense suggested that Burger’s account contradicted that of her husband, who has yet to testify.