A Tennessee driver, John Alexander Benfield, is facing charges following a tragic accident involving a group of college cyclists. Two cyclists lost their lives, and five others sustained serious injuries in the crash. The incident took place on Highway 19E near Simerly Creek Road in Carter County.
According to an affidavit by the Tennessee Highway Patrol, Benfield was driving a 2003 Subaru Baja Sport when the vehicle ahead of him moved lanes. He allegedly did not see the cyclists in the outside lane until it was too late. Investigators noted the absence of any physical evidence indicating Benfield attempted to brake or take evasive maneuvers before the collision.
The fatalities included Milligan University sophomores Haylan Engdahl and Brayden Rogers, as confirmed by the university. Seven other cyclists suffered severe injuries in the crash.
Milligan University expressed profound sorrow over the loss, urging the public to keep the victims, their families, and the university community in their prayers. They expressed, “There are no words to adequately describe this level of loss.”
In addition to the charges of reckless vehicular homicide and reckless aggravated assault, officers reported detecting the odor of marijuana in Benfield’s vehicle, although impairment charges were not filed in the warrant.
The Tennessee Highway Patrol leads the ongoing investigation. They are interviewing witnesses, collecting evidence, and assessing the crash site. Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security’s Jason Pack emphasized their commitment to a thorough investigation to ensure accuracy.
Benfield was arrested after probable cause was established, and his bond was set at $150,000. USA Cycling has also publicly extended condolences, mourning the loss of Engdahl and Rogers and acknowledging the impact on the entire Milligan community.
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