SPECTATORS were delayed entry to The Players for the third round at TPC Sawgrass following a fatal shooting near the course the night prior.
Officials from St. Johns County Sheriff’s office confirmed that a shooting occurred at around 10.30pm on Friday night less than a mile from the course.
Two people were killed in the incident, which happened at a nearby Walgreens supermarket parking lot.
Authorities said they have identified the suspect, who was tracked onto the course by sniffer dogs.
Sheriff Rob Hardwick revealed in a statement that the suspect even spoke to PGA Tour employees on the property while fleeing from law enforcement.
The PGA Tour were in communication with the Sheriff’s office as they evaluated the situation, before making the decision to temporarily delay the entry of spectators at the event.
The PGA Tour released a statement on the situation that read: “Due to operational considerations, gates for today’s third round will now open at 9 am ET (1pm GMT).
“We have worked closely with the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office and appreciate the coordination and partnership from Sheriff Rob Hardwick and his team.
“Please note, tee times will remain as previously scheduled, and all on-course hospitality venues will open at 11 am ET (3pm GMT).”
The plan to get play underway on time came to pass, with play in the third round teeing off at 8.15am ET (12.15pm GMT).
