John Benfield Accident Update: Newland Driver Charged After Milligan University Cycling Team Crash
HAMPTON, Tenn. — John Benfield of Newland, North Carolina, has been charged following a deadly crash involving members of the Milligan University cycling team on U.S. Highway 19E near Simerly Creek Road in Hampton, Tennessee. The collision happened Wednesday morning when a vehicle struck a group of cyclists participating in a training ride, killing two students and injuring several others.
Agencies identified Benfield, 69, as the driver involved in the crash. According to Carter County District Attorney General Steven Finney, Benfield faces two counts of vehicular homicide by recklessness and five counts of aggravated assault by vehicle by recklessness. He was taken into custody and booked into the Carter County Detention Center.
Representatives said additional charges could be filed as the investigation continues. The Tennessee Highway Patrol is leading the inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the collision, and law enforcement have not released a complete explanation of what caused the vehicle to strike the cyclists.
Milligan University confirmed that the two students who died were members of its cycling team. The university identified the victims as Haylan Engdahl and Brayden Rogers, both sophomores.
Several other cyclists were injured in the crash and received emergency medical treatment. Seven injured students were transported to Johnson City Medical Center, where spokespeople reported that four were in critical condition, two were stable, and one was evaluated and released. Emergency responders also used multiple medical helicopters to transport certain of those wounded from the scene.
The crash prompted a major emergency response along the highway as investigators, medical crews, and emergency personnel worked at the scene. The roadway experienced temporary disruption while agencies conducted their investigation and provided assistance to those involved.
The charges against Benfield remain allegations, and the investigation is ongoing. Authorities go on to review evidence from the crash as they work to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
Milligan University has expressed sorrow over the deaths and injuries and said counseling and pastoral resources are being made available to members of the university public. Further updates are expected as the Tennessee Highway Patrol and Carter County authorities proceed their investigation and court proceedings.
