George Zimmerman showed an unexpected moment of remorse and offered an explanation today as he apologized to Taryvon Martin’s parents on the witness stand, ABC News is reporting. The neighborhood watch volunteer, who was granted $150,000 bail, said he didn’t know how old Martin was, or whether or not he was armed. This marks the first time Zimmerman has publicly spoken about the February 26 shooting.

The hearing ended with Circuit Judge Kenneth Lester ruling that Zimmerman would be granted bail as he awaits trial on second-degree murder charges. He may be released within the next several days, and may be allowed to live outside Florida until his trial, for his own safety. He would be monitored electronically until the trial begins. As conditions for his bail, Zimmerman isn’t allowed to have any guns, and must observe a 7pm-6am curfew. He must also surrender his passport.

It’s unusual for defendants to address the charges they’re facing and to apologize while at bail hearings. Martin’s parents didn’t publicly comment on Zimmerman’s apology, but attorney Natalie Jackson said “this was the most unmeaningful apology.”

Zimmerman’s lawyer, Mark O’Mara, admitted after the hearing that it was risky putting his client on the stand. But he added that Zimmerman wanted to respond after Martin’s mother said she would like to hear from him. The lawyer added that his client wanted to acknowledge what happened the day of the shooting.”

Written by: Karen Benardello