Two-time world champion cyclist and Olympic medalist Rohan Dennis has entered a guilty plea in connection with the 2023 death of his wife, fellow Olympian Melissa Hoskins. The incident occurred in front of their Adelaide home on December 30, 2023, when Hoskins was struck by Dennis's vehicle. She later succumbed to her injuries.
Dennis, who retired from professional cycling in 2023, reached a plea agreement that absolves him of direct responsibility for Hoskins' death. The initial charges of dangerous driving causing death and aggravated driving without due care were withdrawn. He pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of creating likelihood of harm. Dennis's legal counsel emphasized in court that he had no intention to harm his wife and that the charge does not hold him accountable for her passing.
Reports suggest that the incident stemmed from an argument between the couple. It's alleged that Dennis drove his vehicle while Hoskins was holding onto it, leading to her injuries. She tragically passed away at Royal Adelaide Hospital. Dennis is scheduled for sentencing and faces a potential prison sentence.
Dennis and Hoskins, who were engaged in 2017 and married the following year, leave behind two children.
