AI Generated Image
Affidavit details moments before deadly Milligan cycling team crash
WCYB • • nation
Key Points:
- John Alexander Benfield, 69, is charged with two counts of vehicular homicide by recklessness and five counts of aggravated assault by vehicle by recklessness after striking members of the Milligan University cycling team, killing two and seriously injuring several others.
- The crash occurred on U.S. Highway 19E near Simerly Creek Road in Carter County around 9:02 a.m., involving a 2003 Subaru Baja Sport driven by Benfield hitting approximately 10 cyclists.
- Investigators allege Benfield failed to observe the cyclists ahead, did not maintain a safe following distance, and took no evasive action before the collision, which resulted in two deaths and multiple serious injuries.
- Law enforcement reported detecting the odor of marijuana from Benfield's vehicle, though no drugs were found and no impairment was confirmed; drug and alcohol test results have not been released.
- Benfield's bond was set at $150,000, with additional charges possible as the Tennessee Highway Patrol continues its investigation.
