HAMPTON, Tenn. (WJHL) — Two Milligan University students are confirmed dead after a crash involving the university’s cycling team in Carter County on Wednesday morning.

The Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) reports the crash occurred on Highway 19E in the Hampton area of the county. The crash took place near Simerly Creek Road and involved a car and a group of bicyclists, according to THP.

Officials from multiple agencies have advised that the road will be closed for several hours in the area, and drivers are asked to avoid it while crews work.

According to THP, preliminary information indicates that two people have died. The highway patrol stated in a social media post that multiple helicopters and medical personnel were called to the scene.

Ballad Health issued a statement around 10:30 a.m. confirming that the incident involved cyclists from Milligan University.

Milligan posted a statement to social media at 12:45 p.m. asking for prayers and identifying the students killed in the crash. According to Milligan, the students killed were sophomores Haylan Engdahl and Brayden Rogers.

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. 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. Our prayers are with all those impacted by this tragedy. Please keep the Milligan community in your prayers.

Milligan University

Ballad Health also confirmed that at least one person was flown to Johnson City Medical Center for treatment, and trauma surgeons were ready to respond.

Ballad’s full statement can be read below:

Ballad Health is deeply saddened by the tragic incident involving Milligan University cyclists who were struck by a vehicle in the Hampton area of Carter County this morning. Our prayers are with the victims, their families and everyone affected by this devastating event.

The Carter County Sheriff’s Department has confirmed that two people died at the scene, and others are being treated for injuries. At least one person is being transported by air to Johnson City Medical Center.

Trauma surgeons are at Johnson City Medical Center, and our teams are prepared to respond.

We are working closely with law enforcement and emergency response partners and will provide additional information as it becomes available.

Ballad Health

Officials from multiple agencies have advised that the road will be closed for several hours in the area, and drivers are asked to avoid it while crews work.