JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) — Three Milligan University cyclists injured in a crash that killed two of their teammates remain hospitalized but are continuing to recover, according to Ballad Health.
In an update released Sunday, Ballad Health said three of the seven cyclists transported to Johnson City Medical Center after the August 19 crash remain hospitalized in stable condition. The other four cyclists who were injured have been discharged.
“The patients continue to recover, and our teams remain focused on providing the care and support they need throughout their healing process,” Ballad Health said in a social media post.
Hospital officials previously reported that while the injuries suffered by the remaining patients are serious, they are not considered life-threatening.
The crash occurred on Wednesday, August 19, on State Route 37/Highway 19E near Simerly Creek Road in the Hampton area of Carter County.
According to investigators, a group of nine Milligan University cycling team members was riding along the roadway when a vehicle driven by 69-year-old John Benfield of North Carolina struck the cyclists.
Two students, Haylan Engdahl of Winthrop Harbor, Illinois, and Brayden Rogers of Huntsville, Alabama, died at the scene.
Court records indicate Benfield was traveling in the right lane behind another vehicle shortly before the collision. According to an affidavit, when the vehicle in front of him moved into the left lane, Benfield allegedly did not see the cyclists ahead.
Investigators stated there was “no physical evidence” indicating Benfield applied his brakes or attempted evasive maneuvers before the crash occurred.
Following the investigation, authorities charged Benfield with two counts of reckless vehicular homicide and five counts of reckless aggravated assault.
Benfield was released from custody Thursday after posting a $300,000 bond. He is scheduled to appear in court on August 31.
The crash has sent shockwaves through the Milligan University community and the cycling community across the region as students, faculty, and supporters continue to mourn the loss of Engdahl and Rogers while supporting the recovery of the injured team members.
Ballad Health officials say medical teams remain focused on the ongoing care and rehabilitation of the cyclists who remain hospitalized.
