Story perspectives

Driver Charged With Vehicular Homicide After Fatal Cyclists Crash

8/20/2026

Summary

Benfield Charged

John Benfield, 69, was charged with vehicular homicide after striking Milligan University cyclists.
Haylan Engdahl and Brayden Rogers, Milligan sophomores, were killed in the crash.
Seven other cyclists were injured, four in critical condition at Johnson City Medical Center.
The crash occurred around 8 a.m. on Highway 19 near Simerly Creek Road in Carter County, Tennessee.
Ballad Health and Johnson City Medical Center activated a mass-casualty response using helicopters.

Summary

Mancia Sentenced

Jose Efrain Hernandez Mancia pleaded guilty to DUI involuntary manslaughter and received a 12-year sentence.
Benfield drove a 2003 Subaru Baja Sport and failed to see cyclists, according to an affidavit.
Investigators reported a marijuana odor at the crash scene, but drug test results were not released.
University President Stephen Waers urged community prayer and support for the victims’ families.

History

Historical Context

In 1997 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration launched a Bicycle Safety Program after a 1996 Dallas crash that killed two cyclists and prompted a $15 million grant for bike-safety projects. U.S. cyclist deaths were about 1,000 in 2015, far higher than in the Netherlands, and the 2024 Milligan University homicide underscores the need for stricter driver enforcement and protected cycling infrastructure.

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Benfield Charged

John Benfield, 69, was charged with vehicular homicide after striking Milligan University cyclists.
Haylan Engdahl and Brayden Rogers, Milligan sophomores, were killed in the crash.
Seven other cyclists were injured, four in critical condition at Johnson City Medical Center.
The crash occurred around 8 a.m. on Highway 19 near Simerly Creek Road in Carter County, Tennessee.
Ballad Health and Johnson City Medical Center activated a mass-casualty response using helicopters.

1 / 3