A tragic incident occurred as two cyclists from a Tennessee college team were killed and seven others injured when a driver struck them on Highway 19 in Carter County. The crash took place around 9 a.m. on Wednesday, as reported by officials. The victims were identified as sophomores Haylan Engdahl and Brayden Rogers from Milligan University, a Christian liberal arts college.

During a news conference, University President Stephen Waers invited the community to join in prayer and mourn with the affected families. The driver, John Benfield, 69, from Newland, North Carolina, faces charges of vehicular homicide by recklessness and aggravated assault by vehicle, according to First Judicial District Attorney General Steven Finney.

The highway was brought to a halt as emergency services responded. According to Sam Rogers, who witnessed the aftermath, the scene was marked by crumpled bikes and injured individuals.

Highway Patrol Maj. Roy Brown reported that the investigation is ongoing. While some details may evolve as more information becomes available, authorities aim to provide the answers that Milligan University and the victims’ families seek.

Eric Deaton of Ballard Health noted that two victims required medical helicopter transport. Six students remained hospitalized as of Wednesday evening. Two were in stable condition in the medical-surgical unit, while four were critically ill in the surgical intensive care unit, stated Dr. Bracken Burns, the trauma medical director.

Finney emphasized the experience of the cycling team, describing it as elite and highly skilled. Despite Benfield’s booking, jail records did not show a posted bond, and there was no confirmation of legal representation for him.

Milligan University is situated in northeastern Tennessee, about 12 miles from the North Carolina border.