Number one golfer Scottie Scheffler is facing charges of second-degree assault on a police officer after an incident at the PGA championship. The officer was allegedly injured when Scheffler’s vehicle dragged him to the ground while he was directing traffic outside the Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, Kentucky.
In addition to the assault charge, Scheffler is also facing charges of third-degree criminal mischief, reckless driving, and disregarding traffic signals from an officer. The golfer claimed it was a “big misunderstanding” and stated that he was following police instructions in a chaotic situation following a fatal accident involving a shuttle bus earlier that morning.
Detective Bryan Gillis, who was directing traffic on Shelbyville Road, was injured when Scheffler’s SUV allegedly accelerated forward, dragging him to the ground. Gillis suffered injuries to his left wrist and knee and had to be taken to the emergency room for treatment.
Despite being arrested, Scheffler was released without bail and returned to the golf club in time for his tee-off. He is scheduled to appear in court for an arraignment on Tuesday.
Scheffler expressed his deepest sympathies to the family of the man who died in the shuttle bus accident and clarified that he never intended to disregard any instructions. His attorney mentioned that Scheffler was unaware of the accident and was simply following traffic directions to enter the premises.
The PGA of America expressed condolences to the family of the victim, John Mills, who lost his life in the tragic accident. Mayor Craig Greenberg also extended his condolences to Mills’ loved ones and emphasized the focus on supporting the family during this difficult time.
