LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — World No. 1 golfer Scottie Scheffler was arrested Friday morning by Louisville police while attempting to enter Valhalla Golf Club for the second round of the PGA Championship. Scheffler faces four charges following the incident.
According to police reports, Scheffler was trying to navigate around an accident scene on the median of a road. Authorities were clearing the aftermath of a fatal accident when Scheffler’s vehicle attempted to bypass traffic. A police officer directed Scheffler to stop, but the golfer proceeded an additional 20 yards before halting.
Scheffler was subsequently handcuffed and taken into custody. He was later released on his own recognizance. The charges include second-degree assault of a police officer, a Class C felony, along with three misdemeanors: third-degree criminal mischief, reckless driving, and disregarding traffic signals from an officer.
In a statement to ESPN.com, Scheffler explained the confusion surrounding the incident:
“This morning, I was proceeding as directed by police officers. It was a very chaotic situation, understandably so considering the tragic accident that had occurred earlier, and there was a big misunderstanding of what I thought I was being asked to do. I never intended to disregard any of the instructions. I’m hopeful to put this to the side and focus on golf today.
“Of course, all of us involved in the tournament express our deepest sympathies to the family of the man who passed away in the earlier accident this morning. It truly puts everything in perspective.”
The fatal accident involved a shuttle bus striking a pedestrian who was attempting to cross a street outside the club. Police and first responders were present when Scheffler arrived.
Scheffler’s attorney, Romines, stated that his client was unaware of the fatal accident.
ESPN reporter Jeff Darlington, who witnessed the arrest, reported seeing Scheffler attempting to drive around the crash site and into the golf club. Darlington noted that a police officer tried to stop Scheffler’s car, but the golfer continued driving. The officer reportedly held onto Scheffler’s car as it moved. After Scheffler stopped, the officer and Scheffler spoke through the driver’s side window before the officer pulled Scheffler out of the car.
The officer, identified as Det. Gillis, claimed he was dragged to the ground as Scheffler drove, suffering “pain, swelling, and abrasions to his left wrist.” Gillis was subsequently taken to the hospital for his injuries.
Scheffler’s focus now shifts back to the PGA Championship, as he looks to put the incident behind him and concentrate on his game.
