UPDATE: A shocking double homicide unfolded near The Players Championship as authorities confirm the arrest of Christian Joseph Barrios, a felon with a troubling criminal history. The incident occurred around 10:30 p.m. on March 13, 2025, in the parking lot of a Walgreens located at 860 N. Florida A1A in Ponte Vedra Beach.
According to St. Johns County Sheriff Robert Hardwick, both victims were shot multiple times and died at the scene. Their identities and ages have not yet been disclosed, but Sheriff Hardwick confirmed they knew each other and were not residents of St. Johns County. The sheriff described the shooting as stemming from a “domestic violence situation,” although specifics remain under investigation.
Barrios, who turned 32 on March 14, was apprehended in Nassau County hours later. Sheriff Hardwick expressed his anger over Barrios’ extensive criminal record, stating, “This thug’s criminal history is embarrassing. It makes me sick to my stomach… and once again, he’s out committing crimes.” Barrios has a staggering record of around 27 arrests dating back to 2016.
Court records reveal that Barrios was on supervised release as part of “drug offender probation,” having been sentenced on February 12 for charges related to drug possession. His probation was scheduled to end on August 14, 2027. Most recently, he had been released from prison on July 7, 2025, after serving time for grand theft auto.
The sheriff noted that the shooting might involve Barrios’ girlfriend, who had previously sought a domestic violence injunction against him last year. This injunction, which was granted, cited instances of threats and violence, including a threat with a gun.
Sheriff Hardwick lamented the loss of life due to domestic violence, stating, “Here we are dumping all these resources, and families are gonna mourn two people that were shot and killed in a parking lot of Walgreens.” He emphasized that this incident highlights a significant societal issue.
As this story develops, authorities are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. The community is urged to stay vigilant and report any information that may assist in the ongoing inquiry.
This is a developing story, and updates will follow as more details emerge.
