SOUTH AFRICA: Star of the 2012 Paralympics Oscar Pistorius was today due to appear in court after being charged with murdering his girlfriend who was shot dead at his home.

The gold medal winner, known as Blade Runner for his prosthetic racing legs, was arrested over the killing of Reeva Steenkamp.

The 30-year-old was shot several times.

As Pistorius, 26, was detained for questioning, police said there had been previous incidents of a "domestic nature" at the property on the gated Silver Lakes Golf Estate in Pretoria.

Initial reports suggested the model and law graduate may have been mistaken for a burglar, but police said "These allegations did not come from us."

There was no sign of a forced entry at the house. The woman was declared dead at the scene and a pistol was recovered.

According to unconfirmed reports, four shots were fired.

Police said an application for bail by Pistorius's lawyer would be opposed.

Initial rumours suggested the shooting may have been a Valentine's Day surprise gone wrong. The couple had been dating since November.

Miss Steenkamp had tweeted on Wednesday: "What do you have up your sleeve for your love tomorrow??? getexcited ValentinesDay."

Pistorius underwent a medical examination which was "standard procedure".

The runner appeared to have serious concerns about his safety and was said to sleep with a revolver by his side.

The athlete made history at the London 2012 Olympics becoming the first amputee sprinter to compete in the able-bodied Games, running in the 400m and 4x400m relay.