Top Investigator in Pistorius Case Replaced

Turns out he faces attempted murder charges

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa — In a dramatic twist in the murder case involving Oscar Pistorius, the lead investigator has been replaced after it was revealed that he himself faces attempted murder charges.

Detective Hilton Botha is facing seven counts of attempted murder and is expected to stand trial in May in relation to a 2011 shooting. Botha and two other police officers allegedly fired at a minibus during an arrest attempt.

On the third day of Pistorius' bail hearing, defense attorney Barry Roux continued to press for a downgrade in the charges of premeditated murder against his client, saying the state hasn't made its case.