Hampton, Tenn. – A tragic traffic accident on Highway 19 left two members of Milligan University’s men’s cycling team dead and seven others wounded on Wednesday morning. The university, a private Christian institution with roughly 1,200 students, said the riders were on a scheduled training ride when a car struck the group.
Details of the crash
According to the Sullivan County district attorney, Steve Finney, the driver was a 69‑year‑old man from North Carolina. He has been arrested and faces two counts of reckless vehicular homicide and five counts of aggravated assault by vehicle with recklessness. The crash occurred on a stretch of Highway 19 where the posted speed limit is 50 mph.
Victims and response
Milligan sophomores Haylan Engdahl of Winthrop Harbor, Illinois, and Brayden Rogers of Huntsville, Alabama, were identified as the fatalities. The remaining nine cyclists were taken to Johnson City Medical Center. Hospital trauma director Dr. Bracken Burns reported that, as of Wednesday evening, four students remained in critical condition, two were stable but still hospitalized, and one had already been discharged.
University President Stephen Waers issued an emotional video message urging the campus community to pray for the injured and to support one another during this difficult time. “We need to help our brothers and sisters bear burdens that are too great for any one person to carry alone,” Waers said.
Investigation and safety concerns
The Tennessee Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision. While the exact cause has not been released, officials noted the speed limit and the rural nature of the roadway, which may have contributed to the severity of the incident.
Background on the cycling program
Milligan’s men’s cycling team entered the 2026 season as the reigning national champions in the team time trial, a title earned at the USA Cycling Collegiate Road Nationals in Wisconsin earlier this year. The program has been a source of pride for the university and its surrounding community.
Community impact
The accident has sparked a conversation among local residents, university families, and faith leaders about road safety for cyclists, especially in areas where training rides intersect with busy highways. Several parents and alumni have called for increased signage, lower speed limits, and dedicated bike lanes where feasible.
Local churches have organized prayer vigils and offered assistance to the injured students and their families. The university’s counseling center is also providing support services for students coping with the loss and trauma.
Next steps
The driver will remain in custody pending a hearing, and the case is expected to proceed through the state court system. Milligan University has announced plans to honor the two fallen cyclists with a memorial service later this month, and the team will resume training once the remaining members are medically cleared.
Authorities continue to remind motorists to exercise caution and respect for cyclists sharing the road, especially in rural areas where visibility may be limited.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
