Adriano denies shooting allegations

Corinthians striker Adriano has denied allegations that he accidentally shot a young woman in the wrist.

The 29-year-old gave his version of events at a police station in Barra de Tijuca on Monday, and spoke at a press conference prior to his exchange with authorities.

He was adamant that Adriane Cirilo dos Santos shot herself, claiming gunpowder tests would prove him correct.

“The tests will show that I’m not lying,” Adriano said in a statement printed by Globoesporte. “It is up to you believe me or not. When things happen with Adriano, the impact is always greater.”

He then proceeded to condemn the woman’s conduct throughout the case, confirming that he will now not cover her treatment costs as a consequence of her actions, despite initially planning to do so.

“I knew her from a friend who was at the club. It was the first time I saw her. What she is doing is not fair; she has no character,” said Adriano.

“I was going to help her by visiting her and paying for her treatment, but now I will not do so.”

“It is inappropriate for her to be doing this to another person. I am a public person, I was worried about her and my image, but I will not hurt her, I hope she recovers.”

Adriano also allayed any fears of his contract with Corinthians being terminated and praised their supportive nature towards him.

“Corinthians have not said anything about terminating my contract. They have always given me support,” he said.

Three other witnesses have since confirmed Adriano’s account of the incident, and the woman could face between two and eight years in prison if found guilty of slanderous denunciation.