Driver charged after crash kills two Milligan University cyclists, injures seven
A 69-year-old driver has been arrested on multiple charges after a vehicle struck a Milligan University cycling team, killing two sophomores and injuring seven others, four critically, in Carter County, Tennessee.
Two Milligan University student athletes were killed and seven others injured, four critically, when a vehicle hit the team during a training ride on a highway in Carter County, Tennessee, on Wednesday morning. The driver, identified as John Benfield, 69, of Newland, North Carolina, has been charged with two counts of vehicular homicide by recklessness and five counts of aggravated assault by vehicle, according to the Carter County district attorney.
Milligan University President Stephen Waers said eleven students were on the ride and confirmed the deceased as sophomores Haylan Engdahl and Brayden Rogers. Hospital officials reported the injured were taken to Johnson City Medical Center.
Major Roy Brown of the Tennessee Highway Patrol said troopers are investigating the incident and will provide findings to the families and the university. District Attorney Steven Finney described the cycling team as “elite” and noted the driver remains in custody, facing possible additional charges.
The university announced counseling and pastoral support services are available to students following the tragedy.