Event Brief
Aug 21, 2026 at 8:00 AM ET
Affidavit: No evidence driver braked before crash
By The BriefBrief
Court documents say Tennessee Highway Patrol troopers responded around 9 a.m. Wednesday to a crash on SR 37/US 19-E near Simerly Creek Road in the Hampton area of Carter County. The affidavit alleges 69-year-old John Benfield struck nine Milligan University cyclists, killing two and injuring seven, including four with critical injuries.
WHO: John Benfield (69), of North Carolina; Milligan University cycling team members including Haylan Engdahl and Brayden Rogers; Tennessee Highway Patrol troopers; nine cyclists total
WHAT: An affidavit in a court case alleges Benfield did not brake before striking a group of nine cyclists, killing two and injuring seven others.
WHEN: Aug 21, 2026
WHERE: Carter County, Tennessee (SR 37/US 19-E near Simerly Creek Road, Hampton area)
WHY: The affidavit alleges the vehicle was closely behind another car and the cyclists became visible after the lead vehicle moved into the left lane; no evidence of braking was reported.
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