LOUISVILLE, Ky. — World No. 1 golfer Scottie Scheffler was arrested Friday morning outside of Valhalla Golf Club hours before the second round of the PGA Championship was set to begin.
He was booked at Metro Corrections at 7:28 a.m. before being released at 8:40 a.m. Scheffler was charged with 2nd degree assault of a police officer, 3rd degree criminal mischief, reckless driving and disregarding signals from officers directing traffic.
Second-degree assault of an officer is a felony charge, his attorney, Steve Romines, said.
According to an arrest citation, an LMPD officer was directing traffic into Gate 1 of Valhalla Golf Club due to the road being closed in both directions from an earlier fatal crash involving a pedestrian and a shuttle bus at about 5 a.m.
Scheffler allegedly attempted to drive past the police officer, in a marked player's vehicle with visible credentials, to get into the club.
The arrest citation says the officer stopped Scheffler and tried to give him instructions, but Scheffler allegedly refused to listen and accelerated forward "dragging" the officer to the ground.
ESPN Reporter Jeff Darlington says the officer then began to scream at Scheffler to get out of the car. When he exited the vehicle, the officer shoved him against the car and immediately placed him in handcuffs.
The officer detained Scheffler in the back of his cruiser, according to ESPN. Shortly after, Scheffler was booked at Metro Corrections and released.
"I think the officer that was directing traffic was maybe not part of the event traffic detail and so that's where the miscommunication arose and that's why we're here," Romines told WHAS11.
Here is video taken of Scheffler being arrested:
LMPD said the officer suffered "pain, swelling, and abrasions" to his left wrist and knee. He was taken to the hospital for further medical treatment by EMS.
The citation says the officer's $80 pants were "damaged beyond repair."
“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.”
One of the owners of Valhalla Golf Club, David Novak, said the following on X: "So saddened by the tragic loss of life today at the PGA Championship due to a traffic accident. I am heartbroken for the family and their loss."
The PGA Championship was delayed due to the fatal crash. The play resumed at 8:35 a.m. Scheffler was originally supposed to tee off at 8:48 a.m. Friday.
Scheffler arrived back at Valhalla at about 9:15 a.m. He is now scheduled to begin his second round at 10:08 a.m.
His arraignment is scheduled for Tuesday at 9 a.m.
Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg released the following statement regarding the fatal crash and Scheffler's arrest:
"This morning, our city experienced a tragic accident that took the life of John Mills, a Louisvillian who will be greatly missed by his family and our community. Our focus is on this family who lost their loved one. I have spoken with members of Mr. Mills’ family to convey our city’s condolences.
"Following this tragedy, LMPD stopped traffic to assist with its investigation into the fatal accident. It is unfortunate that an incident took place between an LMPD officer and Mr. Scheffler while he was attempting to enter Valhalla. LMPD is fully investigating this incident and the legal process will proceed. We appreciate everyone’s cooperation.
"We remain focused on the tragic loss of life and will share more information on both of these matters as available."
The PGA of America also released a statement Friday afternoon:
"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."
In a statement hours after the incident, LMPD released a statement:
“This is a preliminary statement regarding the facts and circumstances of what occurred near Valhalla Golf Club early this morning. We are still in the process of gathering information and investigating what transpired today. At about 5:07 this morning, in front of Gate 2 at Valhalla Golf Club, a pedestrian was fatally struck by a shuttle bus. LMPD expresses its sincere condolences to the family of the individual who died as a result of that collision. All lanes of traffic at the scene were closed while the fatality investigation occurred. LMPD personnel were also directing traffic around the scene. While an officer was directing traffic, an encounter with a motorist attempting to make entry into a restricted area ultimately led to the driver being arrested. We are in the process of conducting a thorough investigation. We are appreciative that all parties involved are fully cooperating.”
Jefferson County Attorney Mike O'Connell released a statement saying:
“The Jefferson County Attorney’s office is still obtaining information in the case of Mr. Scheffler and will review and proceed accordingly.”
We will update this story with more information as we learn more.
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