A popular horse show along Highway 309 in Marshall County turned deadly Saturday evening when a verbal dispute escalated into gunfire, claiming the life of a Benton County man. Gary Poplar, 56, was fatally shot during the altercation at the equestrian event in the Wall Hill area near Byhalia.
Marshall County sheriff’s deputies responded to reports of gunfire at the Matthew Corners section of Highway 309, south of Byhalia, where they found Poplar suffering from a gunshot wound in a grassy spectator area near the show ring. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The confrontation began as a verbal dispute between Poplar and Milton Burton of Byhalia. Investigators determined that words were exchanged between the two men in the open spectator area before Burton produced a handgun and opened fire. Poplar was struck and collapsed near the event grounds. No other individuals were injured in the altercation, which occurred during the evening portion of the horse show.
The horse show was a community gathering that draws families and riders from across the Delta region. Poplar was well-known in local equestrian circles and was described by family members as a dedicated horseman and a kind-hearted man. Friends and fellow participants expressed shock that a night of community competition could end in such tragedy.
Burton remained at the scene after the shooting and voluntarily turned himself in to the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department without attempting to flee. Deputies took him into custody and transported him to the county jail. He now faces a first-degree murder charge in connection with Poplar’s death.
The rural community near Highway 309 in the Wall Hill area is known for its strong equestrian traditions. In the days following the shooting, residents and event organizers have voiced sorrow and concern, with many calling for greater awareness around conflict resolution at public gatherings. Local leaders have offered condolences to Poplar’s family while emphasizing the importance of safety at events along this stretch of Highway 309. The case is being handled as an isolated altercation, and authorities have confirmed there is no ongoing threat to the public.
