South Africa’s ‘Blade Runner’ Oscar Pistorius Freed On Parole Nearly 11 Years After Killing Girlfriend

Oscar Pistorius has been released on parole almost 11 years after the murder of his girlfriend, a case that garnered widespread global attention.

The former Paralympic champion - once celebrated as the 'blade runner' - was granted parole in November and today (Friday) left a South African jail.

According to Sky News, Pistorius is now at home, South Africa's correctional services department said.

Pistorius shot Reeva Steenkamp on Valentine's Day in 2013 at his home in Pretoria, South Africa.

The 37-year-old said he fired his gun through a bathroom door after mistaking her for an intruder.

Prosecutors said the killing was premeditated and he shot Ms Steenkamp after she fled to the toilet following a row.

The parole will last until December 2029 and Pistorius will be subject to restrictions and supervised by a correctional services official.

He must also attend therapy for anger issues and "gender-based violence issues", and will do community service.

He was expected to stay in his uncle's Pretoria mansion.

In a statement shared by the Steenkamp family lawyer, Ms Steenkamp's mother said: "There can never be justice if your loved one is never coming back, and no amount of time served will bring Reeva back."

"We, who remain behind, are the ones serving a life sentence," June Steenkamp said, adding her only desire was to be allowed to live in peace after Pistorius' release on parole.