CARTER COUNTY, Tenn. (WOKI/ WVLT) – The National Transportation Safety Board has released its preliminary findings into the August crash that killed two Milligan University cyclists and injured several others during a training ride on U.S. Highway 19E in Carter County.
According to the NTSB report, a group of 10 cyclists was traveling southbound in the right lane of Highway 19E shortly after 9 a.m. on Aug. 19. Investigators said the riders were cycling two abreast when a 2003 Subaru Baja approached from behind after the group passed the intersection with Simerly Creek Road.
The report states the vehicle overtook the cyclists and struck them from the rear, continuing through the group before coming to a stop straddling the highway’s white edge line.
Two cyclists, Haylan Engdahl and Brayden Rogers, were killed at the scene.
Investigators said five cyclists suffered serious injuries, two others sustained minor injuries and one cyclist was not injured. The driver of the Subaru, identified as John Benfield, suffered minor injuries.
Following the crash, Benfield was charged with two counts of reckless vehicular homicide and five counts of reckless aggravated assault.
The NTSB’s preliminary report notes that the section of Highway 19E where the collision occurred carries a posted speed limit of 55 miles per hour and is designated by the Tennessee Department of Transportation as a bicycle route.
Investigators also reported that weather and roadway conditions were clear and dry at the time of the crash.
The NTSB said the Tennessee Highway Patrol is assisting with the investigation, which remains active. A final report determining the probable cause of the crash is expected after investigators complete their review of evidence, vehicle data, roadway conditions and other contributing factors.
The crash sent shockwaves through the Milligan University community and the region’s cycling community, as riders and supporters continue to remember Engdahl and Rogers while those injured continue their recovery.
