PGA Championship
PGA Championship 2024: Man working for PGA vendor killed in traffic accident outside Valhalla
John Mills was working for a PGA vendor when he was killed Friday in a traffic accident outside Valhalla Golf Club. (Photo courtesy of John Mills family)
LOUISVILLE — A man working for a PGA of America vendor was killed by a shuttle bus outside Valhalla Golf Club Friday morning ahead of the second round of the 2024 PGA Championship.
The PGA of America identified the victim as John Mills, a 69-year-old Louisville resident. According to a Louisville Metro Police spokesperson, the accident occurred around 5 a.m in the 1500 block of Shelbyville Road. A shuttle bus was traveling eastbound in a lane that is dedicated to buses. The victim died at the scene, according to police.
"Our primary concern today remains with the family of John Mills, who lost his life in a tragic accident early this morning while reporting to work,” the PGA of America said in a statement. “As it relates to the incident involving Scottie Scheffler, we are fully cooperating as local authorities review what took place. While the legal process plays out, questions should to be directed to Scheffler’s attorney or local authorities."
The accident caused the PGA of America to delay the start of the second round by 1 hour and 20 minutes. Play began at 8:35 a.m.
“He was enjoying his time at Valhalla while working security," Mills family said via a statement. "He liked to stay busy in retirement. We love him and will miss him.”
The accident caused traffic to be backed up around Valhalla. Subsequently, Scottie Scheffler, in an attempt to get to the golf course for his second round tee time was involved in an incident with Louisville police that resulted in the World No. 1 golfer being arrested and charged with second degree assault of an officer among four counts.
On Thursday a similar accident happened at the same spot, with a shuttle bus and SUV crash snarling traffic and causing transportation delays to fans.