In the summer of 1908, a tragedy unfolded in the town of Greenfield, Tennessee, forever marking its history. Town Marshal Carl Grooms, a man of thirty years, lost his life in the line of duty on a Saturday evening in July. The incident that led to his untimely death began with a disturbance following a barbeque held near the town.
That afternoon, individuals returning from the festivities were reportedly drinking and behaving boisterously, prompting Marshal Grooms to make a couple of
arrests earlier in the day to maintain order. As the sun began to set, Jodie Butler and his brother, Will, arrived in town under the influence of alcohol. Will Butler's cursing drew the attention of Marshal Grooms, who then attempted to arrest him.
Resisting the arrest, Will Butler fought back against the officer. During the struggle, Jodie Butler intervened, firing a shot that struck Marshal Grooms. Despite being wounded, Grooms managed to return fire, fatally wounding Jodie Butler. Both men received immediate medical attention, but their injuries proved to be too severe.
Jodie Butler, described as a notorious character from Gibson County, succumbed to his wounds around midnight and was buried the following day. He left behind a wife and seven children. Marshal Grooms was transported by train to Memphis for an operation in a desperate attempt to save his life, but he passed away just before reaching the city. His body was returned to Greenfield and laid to rest on Monday afternoon. Carl Grooms was the eldest son of Trustee and Mrs. Z. W. Grooms of Dresden. The event was chronicled as one of the saddest tragedies in the county's recent memory, with both men losing their lives in the violent encounter.
