Two killed in parking lot near TPC Sawgrass


Three hours after the conclusion of Friday’s second round of The Players Championship, two people were shot and killed in a parking lot not far from TPC Sawgrass. The suspect in the shooting fled briefly onto PGA Tour property, and then escaped the area in a stolen car. The investigation of the incident forced a delay in the opening of the gates for Saturday’s round.

St. Johns County (Fla.) Sheriff Rob Hardwick said in an early Saturday morning briefing that two people who were shot died at a nearby hospital. The suspect fled onto the PGA Tour’s property, encountered several employees, and then carjacked a BMW. He continued his escape, then fled on foot when nearby Nassau County police disabled the vehicle. The suspect was taken into custody early Saturday morning, according to local reports.

Hardwick indicated the crime was a domestic one, and both victims were known to the suspect, whom Hardwick identified as Christian Joseph Barrios. Local media reports indicate that Barrios, 32, has a lengthy criminal history, with at least 27 arrests. Barrios is currently out of prison on probation.

The incident took place at a Walgreens not far from the golf course, with reports of multiple shots fired flooding into local dispatchers.

“Due to operational considerations, gates for today’s third round will now open at 9 a.m,” the PGA Tour said in a statement. “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 a.m.”

Ella Masters

Ella Masters covers golf news, tournament recaps, and lifestyle content for Golf Strategy Zone. She tracks what's happening across the PGA Tour, LPGA, and LIV Golf so you don't have to. For in-depth strategy guides, gear reviews, and tips from 30+ years on the course, check out articles by site co-founders Chris Hughes and Bob Hughes.

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