WASHINGTON, D.C. (WOKI / WVLT) — The National Transportation Safety Board has launched an investigation into the crash that killed two Milligan University cyclists and injured several others in Carter County.
The NTSB announced Monday that it has opened a safety investigation into the August 19 collision and is working in coordination with the Tennessee Highway Patrol.
The crash occurred on State Route 37/Highway 19E near Simerly Creek Road in the Hampton area of Carter County, where a group of nine Milligan University cycling team members was riding.
According to investigators, 69-year-old John Benfield of North Carolina was driving along Highway 19E when his vehicle struck the group of cyclists.
Two cyclists, Haylan Engdahl of Winthrop Harbor, Illinois, and Brayden Rogers of Huntsville, Alabama, were killed at the scene.
Seven additional cyclists were injured in the crash. Ballad Health reported Sunday that four of those injured have been discharged from the hospital, while three remain hospitalized in stable condition.
NTSB Reviews Circumstances of Crash
The NTSB conducts independent investigations of significant transportation incidents to identify safety issues and recommend measures aimed at preventing similar tragedies.
The agency’s review will run alongside the ongoing criminal investigation being conducted by state authorities.
Federal investigators have not yet released details about the scope of their investigation or a timeline for findings.
Investigators Cite Lack of Evasive Action
According to a previously released affidavit, Benfield was traveling closely behind another vehicle in the right lane before the collision.
Investigators said that when the vehicle ahead moved into the left lane, Benfield allegedly failed to see the cyclists traveling ahead on the roadway.
The affidavit states there was “no physical evidence” indicating that Benfield applied his brakes or attempted evasive action before striking the cyclists.
Criminal Charges Filed
Following the investigation by state authorities, Benfield was charged with:
- Two counts of reckless vehicular homicide
- Five counts of reckless aggravated assault
Benfield posted a $300,000 bond and was released from custody on August 20.
He is scheduled to appear in court on August 31.
Community Continues to Mourn
The crash has deeply impacted the Milligan University community, which continues to mourn the loss of Engdahl and Rogers while supporting the recovery of the injured cyclists.
As the NTSB begins its review, investigators will examine the circumstances surrounding the crash, roadway conditions, driver actions, and other factors that may contribute to future safety recommendations.
The federal investigation remains active.
