Steenkamp's parents defends Pistorius suing decision in first interview since daughter's death

The parents of Reeva Steenkamp, the South African model shot dead by Olympic athlete Oscar Pistorius, have defended their decision to sue the sprinter, in their first press interaction since their daughter's death.

The decision to sue Pistorius has caused outrage in South Africa, the Herald Sun reports.

In an interview with a British daily, Steenkamp's mother June Steenkamp said that although their hearts are broken, they have been left with no option other than to sue Pistorius, adding that they are struggling financially because of the Blade Runner.

According to Steenkamp, her daughter was supporting them financially, adding that they had asked her to send money to pay their cable television bill on the night she died, when she was on her way to Pistorius' home.

Stating that he is aware that not everyone understood their motive behind the decision, Steenkamp's father Barry Steenkamp said that he feels awkward, guilty and terrible when people criticise them, adding that such comments hurt them as a family.

His wife further said that they have suffered a total loss as Pistorius had taken away their daughter's chances of ever marrying or having children, adding that she still expects and wants her daughter to walk through their door.

Pistorius, who made world headlines by becoming the first man to race in Olympic competition with artificial limbs, has claimed he shot his girlfriend in self-defence, thinking she was an intruder, the report added.