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Olympic Double-Amputee Pistorius Arrested In Shooting Death

South African sprinter Oscar Pistorius was arrested Thursday after a woman was found shot to death in his home in Pretoria. Pistorius, 26, a double-amputee Olympic sprinter known as "Blade Runner," was taken into custody early Thursday

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South African sprinter Oscar Pistorius was arrested Thursday after a woman was found shot to death in his home in Pretoria. Pistorius, 26, a double-amputee Olympic sprinter known as "Blade Runner," was taken into custody early Thursday after police responded to a call about a shooting at his home.

According to the the Associated Press, the woman killed was 30-year-old Reeva Steenkamp, a self-described “cover girl for FHM Models.” South African media reported that Steenkamp was Pistorius’s girlfriend and that he allegedly shot her after mistaking her for a burglar, an allegation that has not been confirmed. Officials apparently found a 9mm handgun in Pistorius’s home. He is expected to appear in court later Thursday.

The South African Paralympian -- a fan favorite -- took home two gold medals and a silver at the 2012 London Olympics.

Via:

Pistorius made history in London last year when he became the first double-amputee track athlete to compete in the Olympic Games. He is one of South Africa's and the world's most famous athletes.

Having had both his legs amputated below the knee before his first birthday because of a congenital condition, he campaigned for years to be allowed to compete against able-bodied athletes. Having initially been banned because of his carbon fiber blades — which critics said gave him an unfair advantage — he was cleared by sport's highest court in 2008 and allowed to run at the top events.

He competed in the 400 meters and on South Africa's 4x400 relay team at the London Games, making history after being have his selection confirmed on South Africa's team at the very last minute. He also retained his Paralympic title in the 400 meters in London.

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