A driver in Tennessee is facing serious charges after a tragic collision that resulted in the deaths of two college cyclists and serious injuries to five others. John Alexander Benfield has been charged with two counts of reckless vehicular homicide and five counts of reckless aggravated assault following a crash that happened on a Wednesday involving members of the Milligan University cycling team in Carter County.

The crash occurred around 9 a.m. on Highway 19E near Simerly Creek Road. Benfield was in a 2003 Subaru Baja Sport behind another vehicle. According to the affidavit filed by the Tennessee Highway Patrol, when the vehicle in front shifted from the outside lane into the inside lane, Benfield allegedly did not brake or take evasive actions, leading to the collision with the cyclists.

Milligan University announced that sophomores Haylan Engdahl and Brayden Rogers were pronounced dead on the scene. The incident left seven others with serious or critical injuries. The university expressed deep sorrow over the loss, urging the public to keep the victims and their families in their thoughts and prayers.

The legal document also mentioned that officers detected the smell of marijuana in Benfield’s vehicle. However, there were no charges related to driving under the influence in the warrant. The Tennessee Highway Patrol is continuing its investigation by interviewing witnesses and examining evidence. Findings will be submitted to the district attorney’s office upon completion. A judicial officer found probable cause for Benfield’s arrest, setting his bond at $150,000.

USA Cycling issued a statement mourning the loss of Engdahl and Rogers, expressing condolences to their families and the Milligan community.