Gerrie Nel, the Oscar Pistorius prosecutor, wants the Olympian sent for independent psychiatric evaluation, according to CNN. This could delay the murder trial for more than a month.
On Monday, a psychiatrist testified that Pistorius is suffering from an anxiety disorder that is a result of his double amputation as an infant and his unstable parents.
Dr. Meryl Vorster, who testified for the defense, said that Pistorius is depressed and feeling guilt from killing girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp.
Nel said that the mental state of Pistorius is comparative to post-traumatic stress disorder and that law requires psychiatric observation.
The lead defense lawyer for Pistorius, Barry Roux, said that Nel is oversimplifying the law. The issue was not resolved by the time court was adjourned for the day. Once both sides finish questioning Vorster, Nel will submit his application.
By having Vorster testify, the defense is attempting to show that Pistorius made a reasonable and genuine mistake when he killed his girlfriend. He has admitted to firing four bullets through a closed door in his home, all of which killed Steenkamp.
He maintains that he thought he was firing at a burglar.
Vorster also testified Pistorius has a fight or flight mentality that focuses on fight due to his disability, which does not permit him to flee. Vorster said this is why he took his gun and moved towards the sounds of what he thought was a burglar.
