A devastating crash involving members of Milligan University’s cycling team has left two students dead and several others seriously injured, prompting criminal charges against a North Carolina man.
Authorities announced that John Benfield, of Newland, North Carolina, has been charged with two counts of reckless vehicular homicide and five counts of aggravated assault by vehicle with recklessness following the collision in Carter County, Tennessee.
According to officials, the crash occurred while a group of Milligan University cyclists was participating in a training ride. Eleven student-athletes were riding together when a vehicle struck the group, resulting in a tragic scene that drew a massive emergency response.
The collision claimed the lives of two Milligan University students, identified by the university as sophomores Haylan Engdahl of Illinois and Brayden Rogers of Alabama. Their deaths have sent shockwaves through the university community, where both students were remembered as valued teammates and members of the campus family.
In addition to the fatalities, several other cyclists suffered serious injuries. Authorities reported that seven individuals were transported to the hospital, many in critical condition. Later updates indicated that one injured cyclist had been released while others remained hospitalized, including several listed in critical condition.
Milligan University President Stephen Waers expressed profound sorrow following the tragedy and urged students, faculty, and community members to support one another during this difficult time. The university has encouraged prayers and assistance for the injured students and the families affected by the crash.
The Milligan cycling program has earned national recognition in recent years, including a national championship earlier this year, making the loss especially painful for teammates, coaches, and supporters.
Benfield was taken into custody and is being booked into the Carter County Jail. Meanwhile, the Tennessee Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision. Authorities have not yet released additional details regarding what may have led to the crash. (AP News)
As the investigation moves forward, communities across Tennessee and beyond are mourning the lives lost while hoping for the recovery of the injured student-athletes. The tragedy has united the Milligan University community in grief, remembrance, and support for those affected by the heartbreaking incident.