A deadly shooting incident near TPC Sawgrass golf course disrupted spectator access during the third day of the prestigious Players Championship tournament in Florida. According to St Johns County Sheriff’s Office, two individuals were fatally shot at approximately 10:30 PM local time on Friday, with the violent incident occurring less than one mile from the championship venue.
The alleged perpetrator, identified as Christian Barrios, reportedly fled onto the golf course premises following the shooting. After an extensive manhunt, law enforcement authorities apprehended Barrios in Nassau County at around 8:00 AM on Saturday following a vehicle pursuit.
Sheriff Robert Hardwick provided details of the suspect’s movements, indicating that Barrios had “made contact” with PGA Tour staff members during his attempted escape. “We believe he picked up a radio belonging to the PGA Tour, not one of our radios, and we know he dropped it after that,” Hardwick stated. “Our canines used it as a scent when they came in there.”
The scheduled 7:30 AM gate opening for spectators was consequently delayed until 9:00 AM due to what tournament organizers described as “operational considerations” related to the security situation. Despite the access restrictions for fans, third-round competition at the PGA Tour’s flagship event commenced according to the original timetable.
Meanwhile, Swedish golfer Ludvig Aberg maintained his tournament leadership position after two rounds, having delivered an impressive nine-under-par 63 performance on Friday prior to the security incident.