In a bizarre twist to a story that has transfixed South Africa and much of the world, the Pistorius family confirmed Sunday that the brother of the South African Olympic star is also facing trial over the death of a woman. Carl Pistorius is facing culpable homicide charges over a 2008 traffic accident in which a woman motorcyclist was killed, his lawyer confirmed on Sunday. The case has nothing to do with Oscar Pistorius, who is facing charges that he murdered girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp. But the revelation caused a stir in South Africa, particularly considering that Carl Pistorius was a “near-constant presence at his younger sibling’s bail hearing,” notes the Guardian. Culpable homicide refers to “unlawful negligent killing,” details CNN.
Carl Pistorius appeared before a judge Thursday and must return to court in late March. Although the charges relate to an incident that took place five years ago, it wasn’t widely known about in South Africa until a local television channel reported the news Sunday, notes Reuters. “There is no doubt that Carl is innocent and the charge will be challenged in court. Carl deeply regrets the accident,” lawyer Kenny Oldwage said. “Blood tests conducted by the police at the time proved that he had not been under the influence of alcohol, confirming that it was a tragic road accident after the deceased collided with Carl’s car.”
