George Zimmerman Photo Shows Bloody Head, May Bolster Self-Defense Claim

A new photograph showing the bloodied back of George Zimmerman's head has surfaced, shedding new light on the controversial Trayvon Martin case.

Taken three minutes after he shot and killed Martin, the image gives possible credence to his claim that he fought for his life and acted in self-defense.

The revelation comes as his lawyer and prosecutors prepare for Zimmerman's first bail hearing today, which could result in his being released from jail.

Zimmerman, 28, is being held on charges of second-degree murder for the February 26 shooting of Martin, 17 which could carry a life sentence if convicted.

The graphic image, first obtained by ABC news, shows blood trickling down the back of George Zimmerman's head from two cuts after the altercation.

It also shows a possible contusion forming on the crown of his head.

Though the police video, taken hours after the shooting, did not show any obvious injuries, the original police report that night notes that the back of Zimmerman's head was wet, and that he was bleeding from the nose and head.

Zimmerman told police that night that he shot and killed Trayvon Martin in self-defense after Martin punched him, pounced on him and threatened him.

Zimmerman says Martin was the aggressor and that he bashed his head into the concrete sidewalk inside the Retreat at Twin Lakes in Sanford, Fla.

Zimmerman was treated at the scene by paramedics, then cuffed and driven to the Sanford police station. He was questioned for hours and released.

He was not admitted to a hospital or given stitches the night of the incident.

The photographer did not see the scuffle that night, but did hear it. The source saw Martin's body on the wet grass and claims the gunpowder burns on Martin's gray hoodie were clearly visible, indicating he was shot at very close range.

The photographer says Zimmerman asked to call his wife. When the photographer asked what to say, Zimmerman blurted out "man, just tell her I shot someone."

ABC News reports that investigators have seen the photo.

"How bad could it have been if they didn't take him to the hospital [and] didn't stitch him up," Martin family attorney Benjamin Crump said in a statement.

He goes on to note that, "The special prosecutor has seen all the evidence and still believes George Zimmerman murdered Trayvon Martin."

Zimmerman's attorney Mark O'Mara says his client will be vindicated:

"He needs to get out. He should not be in jail. I want him out because I need him out. He wants to get out. His family wants it out. It should happen."

In a bail hearing in Florida, the burden of proof to deny bail, even in a second degree murder trial, is higher than necessary to seek a conviction in a trial.

If Zimmerman is released, his attorney tells ABC News that he has a number of potential safe houses prepared to shelter him. Stay tuned.