Tennessee driver charged after crash kills two Milligan University cyclists
This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.
A 69-year-old driver struck a group of Milligan University cyclists in Tennessee on Wednesday, killing two and injuring seven. John Benfield faces two counts of vehicular homicide by recklessness and five counts of aggravated assault by vehicle. Investigators found no evidence he braked or took evasive action before the collision.
Key Facts
- Two members of the Milligan University cycling team died and seven were hospitalized after the crash.
- John Benfield, 69, was arrested and charged with two counts of vehicular homicide by recklessness and five counts of aggravated assault by vehicle.
- The Tennessee Highway Patrol affidavit states there was no physical evidence that Benfield applied brakes or took evasive action.
- Officers reported detecting the odor of marijuana coming from Benfield's vehicle, though he has not been charged with DUI.
- Benfield was released from Carter County jail on a $300,000 bond.
Crash Details
Tennessee Highway Patrol Trooper Mason Bowen arrived at the scene at approximately 9:02 a.m. and found a 2003 Subaru Baja Sport had struck about 10 cyclists. The vehicle ahead of Benfield changed lanes, and Benfield failed to observe the cyclists in his lane, according to the affidavit. Investigators found no physical evidence that Benfield braked or took evasive action before the collision. Officers at the scene reported detecting the odor of marijuana from Benfield's vehicle, but no DUI charge has been filed.
Charges and Release
Benfield was arrested and charged with two counts of vehicular homicide by recklessness and five counts of aggravated assault by vehicle. He was released from Carter County jail on a $300,000 bond. Prosecutors highlighted a 1990 DUI charge and a severe accident in 2017 that the state is investigating.
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