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An unfortunate incident occurred before the second round of the 2024 PGA Championship at Valhalla Golf Club on Friday morning, leaving one tournament worker dead.
The worker, identified as a man named John Mills, was struck by a shuttle bus while crossing the street outside of the golf club at around 5 a.m. local time, according to the Louisville Metro Police Department. Police said the man passed away at the scene.
PGA of America released the following statement after learning the fatality was a vendor worker for the tournament.
“This morning we were devastated to learn that a worker with one of our vendors was tragically struck and killed by a shuttle bus outside Valhalla Golf Club. This is heartbreaking to all of us involved with the PGA Championship. We extend our sincere condolences to their family and loved ones,” the statement said.
The accident delayed the start time of the second round by over an hour, with tee times delayed until 8:35 a.m.
Chaotic morning at the PGA Championship
Four hours after its initial statement, PGA of America released another just before 2 p.m. ET regarding the incident and the arrest of World No. 1 golfer Scottie Scheffler.
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“Our primary concern today remains with the family of John Mills, who lost his life in a tragic accident early this morning while reporting to work.
“As it relates to the incident involving Scottie Scheffler, we are fully cooperating as local authorities review what took place. While the legal process plays out, questions should be directed to Scheffler’s attorney or local authorities.”
The fatal accident has been overshadowed by Scheffler's arrest an hour after the situation unfolded. Amid the confusion of the road closures at the scene of the accident, Scheffler was detained and booked by police and faces four different charges.
Scheffler reportedly did not listen to police when they tried to stop him from driving around the scene to enter Valhalla Golf Club, which participating golfers were still permitted to do despite the accident, per ESPN's Jeff Darlington. Scheffler was arrested, charged, released and returned to the club all within three hours. He said the situation was a “big misunderstanding.”
Four hours after he was arrested, Scheffler took his first swing of the second round and remarkably remains among the PGA Championship leaders as he closes out his round.
Friday morning's incidents near Valhalla Golf Club put life's unexpected nature into perspective. Our condolences are with the family and friends of John Mills.
