South African sprinter Oscar Pistorius, known for competing in international competitions for able-bodied athletes although he has double below-knee amputations, has been charged with the murder of his 30-year-old girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp, Reuters reports.
Pistorius allegedly shot Steenkamp at his home in Pretoria, South Africa. His neighbors reported they had heard noises coming from his house at the time of the shooting, and police said a 9mm pistol had been found at the scene.
Pistorius is due to appear in court Friday.
"At this stage he is on his way to a district surgeon for medical examination," police brigadier Denise Beukes told reporters.
Steenkamp was an advocate for stopping violence against women. Four days ago, she tweeted "I woke up in a happy safe home this morning. Not everyone did. Speak out against the rape of individuals in SA. RIP Anene Booysen #rape #crime #sayNO.”"
I woke up in a happy safe home this morning. Not everyone did. Speak out against the rape of individuals… instagr.am/p/Viq8nNwPRy/— Reeva Steenkamp (@reevasteenkamp) February 10, 2013
Some of her most recent tweets were Valentine's day greetings.
What do you have up your sleeve for your love tomorrow??? #getexcited #ValentinesDay— Reeva Steenkamp (@reevasteenkamp) February 13, 2013