Gary Poplar Killed in Marshall County Horse Show Shooting as Milton Burton Turns Himself In; Multiple Weekend Shootings Under Investigation

A weekend of violence in Marshall County, Mississippi, has left one man dead and multiple others injured in separate incidents, with authorities confirming an arrest in connection to a fatal shooting at a horse show.

Man Killed at Horse Show Identified

The Marshall County Sheriff’s Office said deputies responded Saturday night, April 11, to reports of gunfire in the Wall Hill area along Highway 309, near the Matthew Corners community.

Upon arrival, deputies found Gary Poplar, of Benton County, suffering from at least one gunshot wound. He was later pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators say the shooting occurred during a horse show and followed an earlier exchange of words. However, officials have not released details about what led to the altercation.

Suspect Turns Himself In

Authorities identified the suspect as Milton Burton, of Byhalia, Mississippi, who later turned himself in to law enforcement.

Burton is now facing a charge of murder and is expected to be arraigned in court. Officials have not released additional details about the circumstances leading up to the shooting.

Community Mourns Victim

Friends and loved ones have taken to social media to remember Gary Poplar as a kind, supportive individual who enjoyed attending community events like horse shows.

His death has left many in the area shaken as investigators continue working to piece together the events that led to the fatal encounter.

Additional Shootings Reported Over Weekend

In a separate incident Saturday night, deputies reported another shooting north of Red Banks, Mississippi, where one person was critically injured and airlifted to a nearby hospital.

Authorities arrested Justin Lee Spoon, of Holly Springs, in connection with that case. He faces a charge of attempted murder and is also expected to be arraigned.

Third Incident Under Investigation

In a third case, deputies responding on Sunday, April 12, discovered a deceased 19-year-old in the 1100 block of Highway 311.

The sheriff’s office has indicated that four persons of interest may be connected to that incident, though no arrests have been announced.

Investigations Ongoing

Marshall County authorities continue to investigate all three incidents, which occurred within a short timeframe and have raised concerns across the community.

Officials have not indicated whether the cases are connected.