2 College Cyclists Killed, Several Other Teammates Injured After Accident Involving Motor Vehicle
A huge tragedy struck college cycling. Sadly, two members of the Milligan University cycling team died Wednesday morning. A vehicle struck the group during a training ride in Tennessee. Multiple teammates remain hospitalized with serious injuries.
The crash happened on Highway 19E near Simerly Creek Road in the Hampton area of Carter County. Tennessee Highway Patrol confirmed a car hit the cyclists. Emergency crews and multiple helicopters responded to the scene.
Milligan University identified the victims as sophomores Haylan Engdahl and Brayden Rogers. The school said other riders suffered serious injuries. They received treatment at Johnson City Medical Center.
College Cycling Star Tragedy Shocks Campus
University officials released a statement shortly after the crash.
“We are profoundly shocked and saddened to share that members of our cycling team were in an accident involving a vehicle this morning while cycling in Hampton, TN,” the school said.
“Sophomores Haylan Engdahl and Brayden Rogers were killed in this accident. Multiple other Milligan cyclists were also seriously injured and are currently receiving treatment at the Johnson City Medical Center. There are no words to adequately describe this level of loss.”
Local hospitals confirmed trauma teams stood ready. At least one victim required air transport. Four riders remained in critical condition later that day. Two others stayed stable. One athlete received evaluation and release.
Engdahl had recovered from a broken femur earlier this year. He suffered that injury in a separate training crash in March. He posted at the time that his spirits stayed high despite the setback.
College Cycling Star Team Faces Heartbreaking Loss
The Milligan squad recently claimed a national title. The men’s team won the team time trial at the USA Cycling Collegiate Road Nationals in Wisconsin this past May. They had planned more races in the coming days.
Authorities charged the driver, 69-year-old John Benfield of Newland, North Carolina, per WJHL. He faces two counts of vehicular homicide by recklessness. Additionally, he faces five counts of aggravated assault by vehicle. At the time of writing, he remains in custody as the investigation continues.
Nearby schools offered support. East Tennessee State University and King University both issued statements of condolence. They extended prayers to the families, teammates, and entire Milligan community.
The incident marks another difficult moment for college athlete families dealing with sudden loss. Road training carries inherent risks for competitive riders.
The university asked the public to keep the entire community in their thoughts during this time of grief. The Milligan cycling program now focuses on supporting the injured riders and honoring their fallen teammates.
2 College Cyclists Killed, Several Other Teammates Injured After Accident Involving Motor Vehicle
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