Fatal accident, Scheffler’s arrest causes chaos, concern for PGA rivals

A fatal accident near the entrance to Valhalla Golf Course on Friday and the subsequent arrest of top player Scottie Scheffler rattled rivals at the PGA Championship.

John Mills, a vendor, was hit by a vehicle and killed before dawn on Friday outside the entrance of Valhalla. Mills was headed to work at the course, reports AFP.

A subsequent traffic jam after the accident prompted Scheffler to jump a curb trying to enter the golf course, which led to his arrest on four charges.

However, he left a jail cell and scored a five-under par 66 to stand on nine-under 133 and was in contention for a third major triumph.

While bizarre and tragic tales unfold, other players are trying to cope with the turmoil.

It was dark and raining and police lights were everywhere. It was rather strange coming into the course, said Harris English, who scored a 67 to stand on 135.

Then news broke that Scottie had been detained, he said, adding it could have been any of them as they were all taking that same route to the club.

He expressed grief over the death.

Min Woo Lee of Australia immediately took to X to show support to Scheffler after his arrest, who claimed it was a “little overreaction”.

He added that it was hard to concentrate during the round and he had to make sure to keep his head in the game.

Austin Eckroat took matters to his own feet and walked a mile and a half.

Collin Morikawa, the two-time major winner who fired a 65 to briefly grab the lead, said Mills deserved more reflection.

He felt it was not being talked about enough or at all and expressed condolences to the family.