Two Milligan Cyclists Killed; Driver Charged

Two Milligan University cycling sophomores, Haylan Engdahl and Brayden Rogers, were killed when a driver struck their training group on Highway 19E in Carter County, Tennessee. The driver, 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. Authorities say the driver did not brake or take evasive action and the crash remains under investigation, with affidavits and police briefings detailing the sequence of events. Four injured riders were in critical condition, with others in stable condition or discharged; several required surgeries. Investigators are examining factors such as vehicle speed, positioning, potential impairment, and whether substances like marijuana were present. Milligan University and state officials expressed shock and support as the investigation continues and the community rallies around affected students and families.