A man who fatally shot two people in a drugstore parking lot about a mile from Tpc Sawgrass fled onto the golf course, prompting tournament officials to delay opening gates to fans before the third round on Saturday, law enforcement said.
What Happened Near Tpc Sawgrass
Deputies responded to multiple 911 calls about shots fired at about 10: 30 pm ET Friday at a Walgreens on Palm Valley Road in Ponte Vedra. Two people were shot multiple times in the parking lot, taken to hospitals and later died. St. Johns County Sheriff Rob Hardwick identified the suspect as 32-year-old Christian Barrios and said investigators believe the incident stemmed from a domestic violence situation.
Suspect Arrest, Vehicle Crash and Charges
Sheriff Hardwick said canine units pursued the suspect onto the PGA Tour property at Tpc Sawgrass after the shooting. Barrios reportedly made contact with PGA staff, picked up a radio and later dropped it. Authorities say the suspect then stole a black BMW, drove into Nassau County and was captured about 8: 00 am ET after deputies used a PIT maneuver that sent the vehicle into a wood line in Callahan. The suspect fled on foot before being found and taken into custody.
Barrios is charged with two counts of first-degree murder, burglary of an occupied dwelling, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, shooting into a conveyance, and grand theft of a motor vehicle. Sheriff Hardwick noted the suspect had a long criminal history and knew the victims.
Tournament Response and Fan Access Delays
The tournament’s first round began on schedule at 8: 15 am ET on Saturday, but organizers cited operational considerations and did not open spectator gates until 9: 00 am ET. Hospitality areas were delayed and opened at 11: 00 am ET. Despite the disruption, the third round teed off on time.
The capture came roughly 30 miles north of the tournament site in Nassau County. Law enforcement officials provided the timeline and details of the arrest and the charges against the suspect.
