Round 2 of the 2024 PGA Championship was delayed Friday due to a fatal car accident involving a shuttle bus and a pedestrian outside of Valhalla Golf Club at 5:09 a.m. ET. The victim has since been identified as a tournament worker who was attempting to cross the road in front of the property.
"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," the PGA of America, which hosts the PGA Championship, said in a statement. "This is heartbreaking to all of us involved with the PGA Championship. We extend our sincere condolences to their family and loved ones."
"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," said Mayor Craig Greenberg in a statement. "... We remain focused on the tragic loss of life and will share more information on both of these matters as available."
Subsequent police presence and traffic outside the golf course caused play to be pushed back by 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Championship competitors like Will Zalatoris and Cameron Young elected to ditch their vehicles and walk to the golf course due to the logjam of traffic. Professional golfers such as PGA Championship participant Emiliano Grillo as well as Ian Poulter and Graeme McDowell have extended condolences to the family via social media posts.
Scottie Scheffler was among those aiming to arrive early at the golf course, though a traffic incident involving a police officer led to Scheffler being arrested outside Valhalla at 6 a.m. The world's No. 1 golfer and reigning Masters champion was released on his own recognizance nearly three hours later; he has since returned to the property to begin his second round at 10:08 a.m.
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshar released a statement of his own later Friday.
"This morning an incident occurred outside the PGA Championship that resulted in the heartbreaking death of a fellow Kentuckian. Our hearts are broken, and we continue to pray for the victim's family. The events that occurred afterward are the unfortunate result of this tragic incident, and we are hopeful that all parties involved can come to a resolution."
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