Pretoria, South Africa

Oscar Pistorius, known as "Blade Runner" for his use of carbon fiber prosthetic blades in Olympic competition, has been charged with murder for allegedly killing his girlfriend at his home Thursday.

According to South African police, Reeva Steenkamp died after sustaining four gunshot wounds to the head and upper body inside Pistorius' home.

Initial reports said that Pistorius allegedly mistaken Steenkamp for a burglar, which was later dismissed by authorities.

"The SA Police Service were just as surprised this morning to hear on the radio that allegations had been made that the deceased had been perceived to be a burglar," police spokesperson Denise Beuke said.

Circumstances are still unclear but police said there were previous incidents of alleged domestic abuse at Pistorius' residence.

The police said they are still interviewing witnesses and would oppose any bail application from Pistorius.

The 26-year-old Pistorius made Olympic history by being the first double amputee to take part in the Summer Games after winning a long legal tussle with the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) for the right to compete in able-bodied competitions.

Pistorius also won gold medals in the 4 x 100 meter relay and 400 meter individual events at the 2012 Paralympic Games in London.

According to his website, Pistorius was born without a fibula in each of his legs.

 

South African police have charged Olympic sprint star Oscar "Blade Runner" Pistorius with the Valentine's Day murder of his model girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp, playing down reports she was mistaken for a burglar

 

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