Nike Drops Olympian Pistorious Following Murder Charge

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Nike says it has suspended the contract of Oscar Pistorius.

Pistorius, the first double-amputee runner to compete on the track at the Olympics, is facing a charge of premeditated murder in South Africa in the Valentine's Day slaying of his girlfriend.

In a brief statement announcing the contract suspension, Nike says "we believe Oscar Pistorius should be afforded due process and we will continue to monitor the situation closely."

Pistorius is a multiple Paralympic medalist, but he failed to win a medal at last year's London Olympics, where he ran in the 400 meters and on South Africa's 4x400 relay team.

Nike dropped Lance Armstrong in October 2012, but stood by Tiger Woods after he admitted to infidelities and went to rehab for sex addiction.