Former world champion cyclist Rohan Dennis has received a two-year suspended sentence following an incident that led to the tragic death of his wife, Olympian Melissa Hoskins. Dennis had pleaded guilty to creating a likelihood of harm after Hoskins was struck by the car he was driving during a dispute at their home in Adelaide in 2023.
Judge Ian Press acknowledged the grief caused by the incident, stating that Dennis had acted recklessly, though he was not criminally responsible for Hoskins' death. The couple reportedly argued over household matters just before the incident, during which Hoskins was holding onto the vehicle as Dennis attempted to leave.
Following the incident, Hoskins was transported to the hospital but succumbed to her injuries. While Dennis initially faced charges for dangerous driving resulting in death, he later admitted to a lesser charge.
During the court proceedings, Hoskins' parents expressed their sorrow while also noting a desire to move forward. They acknowledged that they had not yet received an apology from Dennis but looked forward to having a respectful relationship for the sake of their grieving family.
Hoskins, who excelled as a cyclist and competed in two Olympic Games, is remembered fondly, with tributes pouring in in the aftermath of her untimely death. Meanwhile, Dennis, who had a celebrated cycling career, retired at the end of the 2023 season, reflecting on the deep loss felt by both families involved.
