CARTER COUNTY, Tenn. — Two cyclists were killed and several others injured Wednesday morning on U.S. 19E near Simerly Creek, authorities said.
According to Carter County Sheriff Mike Fraley, the crash involved a vehicle and multiple bicycles; two victims died at the scene and multiple others were flown for treatment. Carter County 911 asked drivers to avoid the area while emergency crews worked.
Ballad Health CEO Alan Levine said members of the Milligan University cycling team were involved, and 7 victims were taken to Johnson City Medical Center. At least one patient was transported by air, and trauma surgeons responded at the hospital.
Ballad Health said Wednesday evening that 2 patients are in stable condition and 4 are being treated in the surgical intensive care unit.
Milligan University identified the deceased as sophomores Haylan Engdahl and Brayden Rodgers. The university said multiple other cyclists are “seriously injured.”
District Attorney Steve Finney said 69-year-old John Benfield, of North Carolina, is charged with 2 counts of vehicle homicide by recklessness and 5 counts of aggravated assault by vehicle by recklessness. He said additional charges are possible, and Benfield is being booked at the Carter County Detention Center.
Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing.