What You Need to Know
• Two Milligan University cyclists, Haylan Engdahl and Brayden Rogers, were killed in a crash on Highway 19.
• Seven other cyclists from the team were injured, with four in critical condition at Ballard Health.
• Driver John Benfield, 69, faces charges including two counts of vehicular homicide by recklessness.
Two Milligan University cyclists, Haylan Engdahl and Brayden Rogers, were killed, and seven others were injured when a vehicle struck them while they were training on Highway 19 in Carter County on Wednesday morning. The crash occurred around 9 a.m., leading to the deaths of the two sophomores from the small Christian liberal arts college. University President Stephen Waers expressed condolences and invited the community to join in prayer for the victims’ families. The driver, John Benfield, 69, from Newland, North Carolina, has been charged with two counts of vehicular homicide by recklessness and five counts of aggravated assault by vehicle by recklessness. Six of the injured cyclists remain hospitalized, with four in critical condition, as investigations into the incident continue.
Why It Matters
This tragic incident highlights the dangers faced by cyclists on public roads, particularly during training sessions. Milligan University is known for its competitive cycling team, which consists of experienced riders. The ongoing investigation aims to uncover the circumstances surrounding the crash, as the community seeks answers and justice for the victims. The case underscores the importance of road safety measures for cyclists and the need for driver awareness in areas where they train.
Read the Full Story →
