World No. 1 golfer Scottie Scheffler shares response to what happened prior to morning arrest

Scottie Scheffler, currently the world’s top-ranked professional golfer, was taken into custody by Louisville Metro police on Friday morning. The incident occurred just outside Valhalla Golf Club, where Scheffler was attempting to navigate the traffic for the 2024 PGA Championship, following a deadly pedestrian crash earlier that morning.

**Incident Details**

The crash involved a shuttle bus and a worker from one of the PGA’s vendors, resulting in the worker’s death. The PGA of America released a statement expressing their sorrow:

“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.”

While Scheffler was not involved in the crash, the traffic chaos led to a confrontation with police. According to a source from WAVE News, a police officer sustained minor injuries after being dragged 10 to 15 yards by Scheffler’s vehicle during the incident.

**Arrest and Charges**

Scheffler was arrested and booked at the Louisville Metro Department of Corrections (LMDC) on several charges, including:
– Second-degree assault of a police officer (Felony)
– Third-degree criminal mischief (Misdemeanor)
– Reckless driving (Violation)
– Disregarding traffic signals from an officer directing traffic (Misdemeanor)

ESPN NFL Reporter Jeff Darlington shared a video of Scheffler’s arrest on social media.

**Details of the Incident**

According to the arrest citation, police were directing traffic into Gate 1 of Valhalla due to road closures from the fatal crash. Scheffler, driving eastbound, attempted to enter the course by crossing into the westbound lanes. An LMPD detective in uniform and reflective rain gear stopped Scheffler to give instructions, but Scheffler reportedly refused to comply and drove off, dragging the detective to the ground. The detective was subsequently taken to the hospital for treatment.

Scheffler’s attorney, Steve Romines, spoke to the media following Scheffler’s release from LMDC on personal recognizance before 9 a.m. The PGA announced that Round 2 play would start at 8:35 a.m., with all starting times delayed by one hour and 20 minutes. Scheffler returned to Valhalla Golf Club by 9:12 a.m., with his tee time scheduled for 10:08 a.m.

**Scheffler’s Statement**

Scheffler addressed the incident on his Instagram story:

“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 incident has highlighted the challenges faced by both the tournament organizers and participants amid tragic and unforeseen events.