A Tennessee driver faces two counts of reckless vehicular homicide and five counts of reckless aggravated assault after a crash involving the Milligan University cycling team. The August 19 collision on Highway 19E in Carter County killed sophomores Haylan Engdahl and Brayden Rogers. Seven other cyclists suffered serious or critical injuries. A newly filed affidavit alleges that the driver did not brake or take evasive action before striking the group.
| 1) | Crash kills two Milligan cyclists |
| 2) | Affidavit alleges no braking or evasive action |
| 3) | Charges and bond follow arrest |
| 4) | Investigation continues in Carter County |
| 5) | University and cycling community respond |
Crash kills two Milligan cyclists
The crash occurred at approximately 9 a.m. Wednesday, August 19, on Highway 19E near Simerly Creek Road in Carter County, Tennessee. Investigators said John Alexander Benfield was driving a 2003 Subaru Baja Sport behind another vehicle when that vehicle moved from the outside lane into the inside lane.
According to Milligan University, sophomores Haylan Engdahl and Brayden Rogers were pronounced dead at the scene. Seven additional members of the university cycling team were injured, with the affidavit describing their injuries as serious or critical.
Affidavit alleges no braking or evasive action
The affidavit filed by the Tennessee Highway Patrol says John Alexander Benfield told investigators he did not see the cyclists traveling ahead in the outside lane until the vehicle in front of him changed lanes. That movement allegedly exposed the group to his view shortly before the collision.
The trooper who prepared the affidavit wrote that investigators found no physical evidence that the Subaru driver attempted to stop or take evasive action before striking the cyclists. The document also states that officers detected the odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. It does not establish whether John Alexander Benfield was impaired, and the warrant did not include a driving-under-the-influence charge.
Charges and bond follow arrest
John Alexander Benfield faces two counts of reckless vehicular homicide in connection with the deaths and five counts of reckless aggravated assault related to injured riders. A judicial officer found probable cause for his arrest on Wednesday.
The warrant listed bond at $150,000. The charges are allegations, and the court process will determine the case’s outcome. The available documents do not state whether additional charges may be considered after the investigation is completed.
Investigation continues in Carter County
The Tennessee Highway Patrol is leading the investigation. Troopers said they are interviewing witnesses, reviewing evidence and examining the crash scene to establish how the collision occurred and whether further action is warranted.
Jason Pack, a spokesperson for the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, said investigators were committed to a thorough review.
“We owe it to them to take the time, follow the facts and get this right,” Pack said.
The patrol said its findings will be submitted to the district attorney’s office when the investigation is complete.
University and cycling community respond
Milligan University said it was profoundly shocked and saddened by the deaths of Haylan Engdahl and Brayden Rogers. The university asked the public to support the victims, their families, teammates and the wider campus community.
“There are no words to adequately describe this level of loss,” the university said. “Our prayers are with all those impacted by this tragedy. Please keep the Milligan community in your prayers.”
USA Cycling also expressed condolences to the families, teammates, coaches and Milligan community, while acknowledging the injuries suffered by the other riders.
| Number | Key Point |
|---|---|
| 1 | Two Milligan University cyclists were killed in the August 19 crash. |
| 2 | Seven other cyclists suffered serious or critical injuries. |
| 3 | The affidavit alleges that the driver did not brake or take evasive action. |
| 4 | The Tennessee Highway Patrol is continuing its investigation. |
Summary
The Tennessee crash has resulted in homicide and aggravated assault charges against John Alexander Benfield after two college cyclists died and seven others were injured. Investigators allege there was no evidence of braking or evasive action before the collision, but the inquiry remains ongoing. Authorities plan to submit their findings to prosecutors after completing witness interviews and evidence reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was killed in the crash?
Milligan University sophomores Haylan Engdahl and Brayden Rogers were pronounced dead at the scene.
What charges does the driver face?
John Alexander Benfield faces two counts of reckless vehicular homicide and five counts of reckless aggravated assault.
Where and when did the collision occur?
The collision occurred around 9 a.m. on August 19, 2026, on Highway 19E near Simerly Creek Road in Carter County, Tennessee.
What is the status of the investigation?
The Tennessee Highway Patrol is interviewing witnesses, reviewing evidence and examining the crash scene before submitting its findings to the district attorney’s office.
