War of words at Pistorius murder trial

A few quotes from inside the courtroom

The shooting death of Oscar Pistorius’ girlfriend, model and reality TV celebrity Reeva Steenkamp, is either a terrible accident or an act of deliberate and lethal violence by a selfish, reckless liar. If convicted of murder, Pistorius faces life in prison. But if acquitted, he may still be convicted of culpable homicide, or manslaughter, which could land him in a South African jail for up to 15 years. Either way, the high- profile murder trial of the 27- year- old Olympic and Paralympic star is intense drama. Here are some highlights of what has been said since the athlete took the stand Monday.

I was simply trying to protect Reeva. I can promise that when she went to bed that night she felt loved.” Oscar Pistorius, taking the witness stand for the first time Your version is a lie. … Impossible.” Prosecutor Gerrie Nel My life is on the line.” Pistorius, to Nel Reeva doesn’t have a life anymore because of what you’ve done.” Nel, in response to Pistorius You keep trying but it’s not working Mr. Pistorius. … Your version is so improbable that nobody would ever think it’s reasonably possible.” Nel It was all about you, Mr. Pistorius.” Nel There hasn’t been a moment since this tragedy happened that I haven’t thought about your family.” Pistorius, to Reeva’s mother Oscar Pistorius is not willing to concede anything. You are not willing to concede a single thing, are you?” Nel