Oscar Pistorius has been granted bail by courts

The South African athlete was released on bail on Friday following his hearing this week

16:53 22 February 2013

Oscar Pistorius, the 26-year-old known as “Blade Runner”, has been granted bail on Friday 22nd February, after attending a hearing in court which lasted for four days. It is expected that the athlete’s trial will be held later this year, where he faces murder charges.

Mr. Pistorius, from Pretoria, South Africa, faces murder charges over the death of his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp. Ms. Steenkamp, 29, who was a model, was shot dead on Valentine’s Day, February 14th, 2013.

The paralympian denies the charges against him. Based on reports, he claims he shot at who he thought was an intruder in his home. The court heard this week that four shots were fired through the bathroom door in Mr. Pistorius’ home.

It is thought that the sprinter was granted bail after magistrate Desmond Nair clarified there was no solid case to say Mr. Pistorius would flee the country.

The conditions of his bail were handed out as well as a fine of 1 million rand, which is £74,000, according to reports. Mr. Pistorius is expected back in court in June this year.

The double-amputee took part in the London 2012 event.