Father of Teen Driver Faces Charges in Death of World-Class Triathlete

ROCKVILLE, Md. — The father of a teenager who was allegedly at the wheel of the car that killed world-class triathlete Judith Marie Flannery was indicted on manslaughter and drunk-driving charges Thursday.

In the April 2 accident, Ronald Milton Rinehart, 38, was sitting in the passenger seat when the car driven by his son crossed the center line and struck Flannery as she rode her bicycle, officials said.

Police say Timothy Rinehart, 16, was driving without a license when Flannery was hit. No action has been taken against the teen, but a report on possible charges has been forwarded to county juvenile officials, a spokeswoman for the state’s attorney said.

The indictment against the senior Rinehart included charges of manslaughter by automobile, homicide by motor vehicle, driving while intoxicated, contributing to rendering a child in need of assistance and several other traffic violations.

Rinehart had been drinking, and though he was not driving, officials said he was responsible because his son did not have a driver’s license or permit. He faces up to 18 years in prison and $8,000 in fines if convicted on all charges.

Flannery, 57, was a four-time world triathlon champion, a six-time U.S. triathlon champion and mother of five.