One year ago today South African Paralympic athlete Oscar Pistorius shot and killed his girlfriend, model Reeva Steenkamp in his home.
The sports star, known as Blade Runner, has maintained since that the shooting was not a murder, and said he believed at the time that Steenkamp was an intruder in his house.
On Valentine’s Day 2013, the 29-year-old beauty was found on the bathroom floor of Pistorius’ Pretoria home. She had been shot three times.
Today, on the anniversary of her death, Pistorius has issued a statement via his website which reads;
No words can adequately capture my feelings about the devastating accident that has caused such heartache for everyone who truly loved – and continues to love Reeva.
The pain and sadness – especially for Reeva’s parents, family and friends consumes me with sorrow.
The loss of Reeva and the complete trauma of that day, I will carry with me for the rest of my life.
Steenkamp and Pistorius pictured a week before Reeva’s death in February of last year
Reeva’s parents Barry and June Steenkamp had issued their own statement earlier in the week, saying; “All we are looking for is closure and to know that our daughter did not suffer on that tragic Valentine’s Day.”
They added;”As the first anniversary of our beloved daughter’s death approaches, we would like to thank all family, friends, the people of South Africa, and the world for their compassion, kind words and comfort shown to us, and for the many letters of condolences we have received.”
Pistorius’ trial is due to begin on March 3rd. He has been charged with premeditated murder.
