Olympic cyclist and world champion Melissa Hoskins has died at the age of 32.
According to reports, she passed away in an inner suburb of Adelaide where she was hit by a vehicle. She was rushed to hospital with severe injuries but did not survive the accident.
According to a police statement, a 33-year-old man has been arrested and charged with causing Hoskins’ death by dangerous driving, endangering life, and driving without due care.
Local media reported that Hoskins’ husband, professional cyclist Rohan Dennis, was the driver who got arrested.
Dennis was part of the Australian cycling team that scooped silver at the 2012 London Olympics and won a bronze medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
ABC News reported that Hoskins was allegedly hit by a vehicle driven by Dennis near their home.
Her grieving parents, Amanda and Peter, and her sister, Jess, issued a heartbreaking statement that read: “Words cannot convey our grief, sadness, and the tragic circumstances of Melissa’s passing. Myself, Amanda, Jess, and families are utterly devastated and still struggling to process what has happened.”
The family described Hoskins as a freewheeling spirit with a big heart and a zest for life. They also said that they would provide her children with a profound understanding of her character, values, as well as the impact she had on others.
Fellow Australian Olympic cyclist Anna Meares wrote: “I have a very heavy heart. My thoughts are with their children, family, and fellow friends. This is a very difficult and tragic time. RIP.”
Cyclist Annette Edmonson also paid tribute to Hoskins, describing her as a ‘shining star’ who excelled in many areas, adding that Hoskins was a ‘fun, loving, hilarious person.
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