Full Breakdown
Shooting Incident Delays Players Championship in Florida
3/14/2026, 11:50:18 PM
Overview of the Incident
On the evening of March 10, 2023, a shooting occurred in the parking lot of a Walgreens near TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, resulting in the deaths of two individuals. The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office identified the suspect as Christian Joseph Barrios, who allegedly shot the victims multiple times around 10:30 PM. The incident was described as stemming from a domestic violence situation, with Barrios having a prior relationship with the victims.
Timeline of Events
- March 10, 2023, 10:30 PM: Christian Barrios shoots two individuals in the Walgreens parking lot.
- March 11, 2023, 8:00 AM: Barrios is apprehended in Nassau County after a manhunt.
- March 11, 2023, 8:15 AM: The first round of the Players Championship begins as scheduled.
- March 11, 2023, 9:00 AM: Tournament gates open, delayed from the original schedule due to the shooting.
- March 11, 2023, 11:00 AM: Hospitality areas open.
Law Enforcement Response
Following the shooting, law enforcement initiated a manhunt for Barrios, who fled onto the golf course. Sheriff Rob Hardwick reported that canine units tracked Barrios as he crossed PGA Tour property, where he interacted with tournament employees and discarded a PGA Tour radio. Barrios later stole a black BMW, leading to a police pursuit that ended when the vehicle was forced off the road in Nassau County.
Official Statements & Responses
Tournament officials decided to delay the opening of gates for the third round of the Players Championship, citing "operational considerations" related to the shooting. Despite the incident, the tournament's schedule for tee times remained intact. Sheriff Hardwick emphasized the seriousness of Barrios's criminal history, stating, "His criminal history is embarrassing. It makes me sick to my stomach."
Criticism & Opposition
While the immediate response from law enforcement and tournament officials was to ensure safety, some critics have raised concerns about the adequacy of security measures at large public events, especially in light of the shooting's proximity to the tournament.
Verbatim Quotes
What's Next
The investigation into the shooting continues, with authorities examining the circumstances surrounding the incident and Barrios's background. The Players Championship is expected to proceed as planned, with heightened security measures in place for the remainder of the event.
