Oscar Pistorius Family Statement: Accuses Social Media Of Insensitivity As Athlete Faces Murder Charges

The family of South African Paralympic athlete Oscar Pistorius has released a statement on his behalf, claiming social media is disregarding the accused murderer’s feelings.

Spokesperson Anneliese Burgess told the media on Thursday, “The disregard that is being shown by some — specifically those commenting via social media — for the profound pain that Reeva’s family and friends are going through is very troubling.

There is not a moment in the day that Oscar does not mourn for his girlfriend and Reeva’s family, and all those who were close to her are in his thoughts constantly.”

The South African Paralympic athlete, nicknamed “Blade Runner,” has been charged with premeditated murder in the death of his girlfriend, FHM model Reeva Steenkamp. Police have said that Pistorius shot Steenkamp through a closed bathroom door on Valentine’s Day, claiming he thought she was an intruder.

He has maintained that it was an accident. In a BBC documentary -- “Oscar Pistorius: What Really Happened?” -- a friend claimed Pistorius has maintained his innocence.

“I believe it was an accident, as Oscar said it was,” the friend, Mike Azzi, said. “We’ve spoken over texts. He often asks people to keep Reeva in his prayers. It’s one of the first things he says to me every time we speak. He has said to me on a number of occasions that he’s really hurting and he’s a broken man.”

Pistorius has been free on bail since February. He is living with his uncle in Pretoria.

“For Oscar, the process is incredibly overwhelming as he struggles not only to deal with manner in which he lost his girlfriend, but also his role in it,” Burgess continued.