**Tragedy Strikes Milligan University Cycling Team in Fatal Collision**
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In a devastating incident on Wednesday morning, August 19, Milligan University has confirmed that two of its students lost their lives, and several others sustained injuries after a vehicle collided with the university’s cycling team. The tragic event unfolded on Highway 19 in Carter County, Tennessee, leading to widespread shock within the university community.
The students tragically killed in the crash have been identified as sophomores Haylan Engdahl and Brayden Rogers. Milligan University expressed its profound grief through an official statement, saying, “There are no words to adequately describe this level of loss. Our prayers are with all those impacted by this tragedy. Please keep the Milligan community in your prayers.”
The collision has drawn significant attention from local authorities, with the Tennessee Highway Patrol promptly responding to the scene. Reports indicated that a group of cyclists, comprising members of the university’s cycling team, were struck by a car while on a training ride. The event occurred around 8 a.m., highlighting the vulnerable nature of cyclists on public roads.
Following the collision, seven additional cyclists were injured, necessitating medical attention at the Johnson City Medical Center. According to Dr. Bracken Burns, the trauma director, the condition of those injured varies. Four individuals remain in critical condition in the surgical intensive care unit, while two are listed as stable. One rider has since been discharged, although three others required significant surgical intervention. Further operations are anticipated for at least one of the injured cyclists.
The driver of the vehicle involved in the incident, 69-year-old John Benfield of Newland, North Carolina, has been taken into custody. Prosecutors have charged him with two counts of vehicular homicide by recklessness and five counts of aggravated assault by vehicle by recklessness. District Attorney General Steven Finney announced that the investigation into the crash is ongoing.
In a show of solidarity and mourning, the national governing body for cycling in the United States, USA Cycling, issued a statement expressing sorrow over the loss of Engdahl and Rogers. Their message extended heartfelt condolences to the families, teammates, and friends impacted by this grievous event.
As Milligan University grapples with the aftermath, the community is coming together to mourn the loss of two promising young lives. The university has set up counselling services for students and staff to help them cope with the distress stemming from the accident.
The tragedy echoes broader concerns regarding the safety of cyclists on roads, particularly during training sessions. Cyclists often rely on safe passage to pursue their activities, but incidents like this highlight the potential dangers posed by vehicular traffic. In light of this incident, there may be renewed calls for increased awareness and improved safety measures for cyclists.
As the investigation continues, Milligan University has asked for privacy for the families of the victims, urging the community to respect their mourning time. The loss of two vibrant members of the university community has undoubtedly left a permanent mark, and the focus now turns to supporting those affected as they navigate this devastating period.
This tragic event serves as a grim reminder of the fragility of life and the need for heightened awareness when sharing the road. The Milligan University community, bolstered by its support systems, faces the challenging road ahead in remembrance of Haylan Engdahl and Brayden Rogers.