Oscar Pistorius Pleads Not Guilty At Reeva Steenkamp's Murder Trial

On the first day of the trial, the court heard witness testimony from Pistorius' neighbor stating she heard "terrible screams" the night of Reeva Steenkamp's murder.

The trial of Oscar Pistorius over the death of his girlfriend, Reeva Steemkamp, began today at the high court in Pretoria, South Africa.

Pistorius has been charged with murdering Steenkamp on Valentine's Day 2013, at his home in Pretoria.

Defense lawyer Kenny Oldwadge read out Pistorius' "legal strategy" and statement at the beginning of the trial.

Pistorius pleaded not guilty to Steenkamp's murder and all other charges.

June Steeenkamp, Reeva Steenkamp's mother, appeared in court today for the first time. She said she wanted Pistorius to have to look her in the eyes.

She told the Mail on Sunday: “I want to look at Oscar, really look him in the eyes, and see for myself the truth about what he did to Reeva, and whatever the court decides at the end of his trial, I will be ready to forgive him."

Pistorius' brother, Carl Pistorius, was present at the trial, as were a number of their relatives.

The first witness of the trial was Michell Burger, Pistorius' neighbor, who gave her account of hearing "terrible screams."

Parts of the trial will be broadcast live on TV in South Africa and all over the world. A South African cable channel has been launched and will provide 24-hour coverage of the trail.

The South African legal system does not have trials by a jury, therefore Judge Thokozile Masipa ultimately decide if Pistorius is innocent or guilty.

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