The terrible death of Oscar Pistorius’s girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp, is connected to him. Both a model and a TV star, she hails from South Africa. Through a barred toilet door, Pistorius shot her on February 14, 2013. He made the defense that ignited a firestorm of controversy throughout the world: he thought she was an intruder.
Bio Data of Reeva Steenkamp
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Reeva Rebecca Steenkamp |
| Birthdate | August 19, 1983 |
| Hometown | Cape Town, South Africa |
| Profession | Model, TV Personality |
| Relationship | Oscar Pistorius (Deceased February 14, 2013) |
| Cause of Death | Gunshot wounds (Head, Arm, Hip) |
| Education | Law Graduate, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University |
| Height | 5 ft 7 in |
| Notable Work | Tropika Island of Treasure |
Things That Happened on Valentine’s Day 2013
Awoke in the middle of the night, Oscar Pistorius believed he had heard an intruder. He fumbled beneath the bed for his 9 mm handgun. He went to the restroom and discharged four rounds through the locked door. Reeva Steenkamp, his girlfriend, was found fatally injured behind the door.
The Argue of Pistorius
According to Pistorius’s testimony, he thought someone was hiding in the restroom. He claimed he yelled for Steenkamp when he thought she was still in bed. When he realized his error, he smashed the door to the restroom with a cricket bat. Tragically, she passed away when he lowered her to the floor and yelled for assistance.
Judgment of the Prosecution
Pistorius was accused by prosecutors of deliberately killing Steenkamp. After an argument, he allegedly went to the restroom, put on his prosthetic legs, and shot her. The prosecution was able to establish premeditation due to evidence of their violent history and their habit of making a lot of noise at home.
Verdict and Penalty
At first, Pistorius was found guilty of manslaughter. The Supreme Court of South Africa raised the charge to murder following an appeal. A prison term of thirteen years and five months was handed down to him. Pistorius was granted parole in 2023 after serving nearly nine years.
Sadness in the Family
June and Barry Steenkamp, who are Reeva’s parents, openly grieved their loss. June stated that their loss was a permanent part of their lives. She stated that no amount of time behind bars would bring her daughter back. The family continued to prioritize honoring Reeva’s legacy and lending their support to anti-violence initiatives.
A Parole Life
Oscar Pistorius, who was famous as the “Blade Runner” before, is now very reclusive. He is not allowed to interact with the media as part of his parole terms. Everything that happened on February 14, 2013, cast a shadow over his athletic career, which had previously garnered respect from throughout the world.
FAQs
- Who was Oscar Pistorius’ girlfriend?
Reeva Steenkamp, a South African model and reality TV star. - What happened to Reeva Steenkamp?
She was fatally shot by Pistorius through a bathroom door. - What was Pistorius’ defense?
He claimed he mistook her for an intruder. - What was the court’s verdict?
Pistorius was convicted of murder after an initial manslaughter conviction was overturned. - How long did Pistorius serve?
He served nearly nine years before being released on parole. - How did Reeva’s parents react?
They described their grief as a life sentence and continue to honor her legacy. - What weapon was used in the incident?
A licensed 9 mm pistol. - What was Pistorius known for before the incident?
He was a Paralympic champion and competed in the 2012 Olympics.
