CARTER COUNTY, Tenn. (WCYB) — Two people are dead, and multiple others are injured following a vehicle-bicycle crash on US Highway 19E at Simerly Creek Wednesday morning.
According to Carter County Sheriff Mike Fraley, the incident involved a vehicle colliding with a group of cyclists, resulting in several victims being transported by air to Johnson City Medical Center. Witnesses reported the scene was chaotic, with numerous emergency personnel responding.
Carter County authorities confirmed that at least one individual was pronounced dead at the scene, while others sustained serious injuries. Emergency responders are still assessing the situation. Drivers are advised to avoid the area as crews manage the incident.
Carter County District Attorney Steve Finney reported that 69-year-old John Benfield of North Carolina has been charged with two counts of vehicular homicide by recklessness and five counts of aggravated assault by vehicle by recklessness. Additional charges may follow, and he is currently detained at the Carter County Detention Center.
Ballad Health indicated that two patients are stable, while four remain in the surgical intensive care unit. The organization is appealing for blood donations due to the high volume of trauma cases.
Milligan University has identified the deceased victims as sophomores Haylan Engdahl and Brayden Rodgers. The university expressed its condolences and urged the community to support the injured and their families.
Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.