CARTER COUNTY, Tenn. (WCYB) — A driver struck a cycling team from Milligan University, resulting in the deaths of two student-athletes and injuries to seven others on Wednesday morning.
Authorities identified the driver as John Alexander Benfield, 69, of North Carolina. He faces two counts of vehicular homicide by recklessness and five counts of aggravated assault by vehicle by recklessness. The incident occurred on U.S. Highway 19E in Carter County.
According to the Tennessee Highway Patrol, approximately 10 cyclists were riding together when Benfield's 2003 Subaru Baja Sport collided with them. Witnesses report that Benfield did not apply his brakes or take any evasive action prior to the crash. Investigators stated he failed to see the cyclists due to insufficient following distance.
The two deceased individuals, identified as 19-year-old Haylan Engdahl and 20-year-old Brayden Rodgers, were pronounced dead at the scene. Seven others were transported to Johnson City Medical Center, with two in stable condition and four in the surgical intensive care unit.
An affidavit noted that officers detected the odor of marijuana from Benfield's vehicle, but no marijuana was confirmed or impairment established at the time of the accident. Benfield's bond is set at $150,000. The investigation by the Tennessee Highway Patrol is ongoing, with the potential for additional charges pending.