Pistorius bail decision expected as hearing resumes

A South African judge is likely to decide on Friday whether to grant bail to "Blade Runner" Oscar Pistorius, with prosecutors arguing he is a cold-blooded killer and his lawyers saying he is far too famous to pose any sort of flight risk.

Pistorius' defence team say the athlete shot dead girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp, 29, in a tragic mistake at his home in the early hours of Feb.14 - Valentine's Day - and deserves bail to prepare for a case that has drawn worldwide attention.

The 26-year-old Olympic and Paralympic star's lower legs were amputated in infancy, and he raced on carbon fibre blades.

The shooting and allegations that have emerged at the bail hearing, which resumed shortly after 0800 GMT on Friday, have stunned the millions around the world who saw his track glory as an inspiring tale of triumph over adversity.

Police pulled their lead detective off the case on Thursday after it was revealed he himself faces attempted murder charges for shooting at a minibus. He has been replaced by South Africa's top detective.

However, in an affidavit read out in court, Pistorius said he was "deeply in love" with Steenkamp, and lead defence counsel Barry Roux said his client had no motive for the killing.