Pistorius bail win in shooting case

Feb 23 2013

"Blade Runner" Oscar Pistorius is spending his first day out of custody since being charged with the murder of his model girlfriend.

On Friday, the Paralympian was granted bail following a four-day hearing in Pretoria, South Africa - a week after he shot girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp dead at his home.

The athlete, who broke down in tears as chief magistrate Desmond Nair announced his decision, was later seen arriving at his uncle Arnold's home.

Pistorius, 26, claims he shot 29-year-old Miss Steenkamp through a bathroom door thinking she was an intruder. Prosecutors say he intended to kill the model, and he has been charged with premeditated murder.

After nearly two hours describing the reasons for his decision, Mr Nair told the packed courtroom that he was granting bail until the next hearing on June 4.

He said there was no suggestion that Pistorius was a "flight risk", he did not appear to have a propensity to violence, and there was no evidence that he would interfere with witnesses. He said the Olympian had "reached out" in a sworn affidavit describing what happened that night, telling the court: "I come to the conclusion that the accused has made a case to be released on bail."

Bail was fixed at one million rand (£73,822), including 100,000 rand (£7,382) in cash. Pistorius must surrender any firearms and his passport, cannot enter any international departure hall, and is banned from using any prohibited substance or alcohol. He must also report to police twice a week as part of his bail conditions.

Speaking on behalf of his family, the athlete's uncle Arnold Pistorius said: "We are relieved by the fact that Oscar got bail. But at the same time we are in mourning for the death of Reeva with her family.

"We are also grateful for the magistrate for coming to the conclusion and for our legal team that has delivered extremely professional and legal statements that led to the decision of giving bail. As the family, we know Oscar's version of what happened that tragic night and we know that that is the truth and that will prevail in the coming court case."

The star left the courthouse in a vehicle with blacked-out windows. Earlier, his coach, Ampie Louw, who described the athlete as "heartbroken", said he might resume training next week but will not compete.