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John Alexander Benfield faces reckless driving charges after striking and killing two Milligan University cyclists

John Alexander Benfield, a 69-year-old driver from North Carolina, faces charges of vehicular homicide by recklessness and aggravated assault by vehicle by recklessness after a Wednesday morning crash in Carter County, Tennessee. The collision occurred around 9:00 a.m. on Highway 19E when Benfield's 2003 Subaru Baja Sport struck a group of approximately 10 cyclists from the Milligan University cycling team. Two sophomores, Haylan Engdahl and Brayden Rogers, were killed in the accident. Seven other team members were injured, with four remaining in critical condition at Johnson City Medical Center. Investigators noted that Benfield failed to observe the cyclists ahead of him and did not appear to take evasive action or apply his brakes before the impact. Law enforcement reported a marijuana odor from the vehicle, though drug testing results are pending. District Attorney Steven Finney stated that the cycling team was an elite group of experienced riders. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities seek to provide answers to the families and the university community.

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