In a devastating incident on Wednesday morning, two students from Milligan University lost their lives and seven others were injured when a vehicle struck members of the college’s cycling team during a training session on Highway 19 in Carter County, Tennessee.
Details of the Incident
The crash occurred around 9 a.m., resulting in the deaths of sophomores Haylan Engdahl and Brayden Rogers. The Tennessee Highway Patrol confirmed their identities, while the university expressed its condolences and called for community support during this tragic time.
Community Response
Milligan University President Stephen Waers addressed the media, inviting the community to join in prayer for the families affected by this tragedy. “I would like to invite the entire community into prayer with us, into grief with the families, with us, and into deep prayer for the families of those we have lost,” he stated.
Charges Against the Driver
The driver, identified as John Benfield, 69, from Newland, North Carolina, has been charged with two counts of vehicular homicide by recklessness and five counts of aggravated assault by vehicle by recklessness, according to First Judicial District Attorney General Steven Finney.
Injuries and Hospitalization
In addition to the fatalities, seven other cyclists from the team sustained injuries. Six of these individuals were hospitalized, with two stabilized and receiving care in a medical-surgical unit, while four others were reported to be in critical condition in the surgical intensive care unit, as stated by Dr. Bracken Burns, the hospital’s trauma medical director.
Investigation Underway
The investigation into the crash is ongoing, with authorities indicating that further details may emerge as witnesses are interviewed and evidence is analyzed. Highway Patrol Maj. Roy Brown emphasized the commitment to providing answers to the families and the university community.
Eyewitness Accounts
Eyewitness Sam Rogers, who passed by the scene shortly after the accident, described the aftermath as horrifying, noting the sight of crumpled bicycles and injured individuals. “I was horrified to see numerous crumpled bikes. There was a person on the road injured and another covered in blood being helped,” he recounted.
Team’s Background
According to Finney, the Milligan University cycling team is comprised of experienced athletes. “This is an elite cycling team. It’s not a bunch of just club guys getting together to ride. They know what they’re doing,” he remarked, highlighting the skill level of the team members.
Current Status of the Driver
Online jail records indicate that Benfield has been booked and has not yet posted bail. Efforts to reach someone associated with him were unsuccessful, and it remains unclear whether he has legal representation.
Milligan University is located in northeastern Tennessee, approximately 12 miles from the North Carolina border. The community continues to mourn the loss of the two students while supporting the injured members of the cycling team.
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