Two Milligan University students were killed Wednesday morning after a vehicle struck members of the university’s cycling team in the Hampton area.
Sophomores Haylan Engdahl and Brayden Rogers died in the crash, according to Milligan University. Multiple other Milligan cyclists were seriously injured and are receiving treatment at Johnson City Medical Center. At least one injured cyclist was transported by helicopter, according to initial reports.
The crash occurred around 9:30 a.m. on U.S. 19E near Simerly Creek Road. The Tennessee Highway Patrol is investigating the crash and is expected to release additional information as it becomes available.
Milligan University released a statement Wednesday afternoon asking the community to pray for those affected.
“We are profoundly shocked and saddened to share that members of our cycling team were in an accident involving a vehicle this morning while cycling in Hampton, TN,” Milligan University said in a statement. “Sophomores Haylan Engdahl and Brayden Rogers were killed in this accident. Multiple other Milligan cyclists were also seriously injured and are currently receiving treatment at the Johnson City Medical Center.”
“There are no words to adequately describe this level of loss,” the university said. “Our prayers are with all those impacted by this tragedy. Please keep the Milligan community in your prayers.”
ETSU President Brian Noland also expressed condolences to the Milligan community.
“The ETSU family joins our neighbors at Milligan University in mourning following the tragic accident involving members of the Milligan cycling team,” Noland said. “I extend our deepest condolences to the Milligan community as they navigate this loss, and we also pray for those who were injured.”
ETSU Athletics released a separate statement expressing support for the Milligan community.
“ETSU Athletics joins our university and region in mourning alongside the Milligan University community after this morning’s tragic accident involving the institution’s cycling team,” the statement said. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, teammates, coaches, faculty and staff affected. Our thoughts are with the entire Milligan community during this incredibly difficult time.”
Milligan University is a private Christian university in Elizabethton, Tennessee. Founded in 1866, the institution became a university in June 2020. Stephen Waers became Milligan’s 16th president in 2024.
The Milligan cycling team was beginning its 2026 season this month.
Additional information about the crash is expected from the Tennessee Highway Patrol as the investigation continues.
