How did popcorn sutton die?

The Tragic Death of Popcorn Sutton

Popcorn Sutton was a legendary Appalachian moonshiner and a legendary figure in the world of bootlegging. Born in 1929, Sutton was known for his expertise in producing high-quality moonshine and his charismatic personality. Despite his success, Sutton’s life was marked by tragedy, and his death was shrouded in mystery. In this article, we will explore the life and death of Popcorn Sutton, and answer the question: How did Popcorn Sutton die?

Early Life and Career

Sutton was born in 1929 in Transylvania County, North Carolina. He grew up in a family of farmers and learned the art of making moonshine from his father. Sutton’s early years were marked by poverty and hardship, but he quickly developed a passion for bootlegging. He started making moonshine at the age of 12 and continued to do so throughout his life.

Sutton’s moonshine was known for its high quality and unique flavor. He used a secret recipe that involved aging the moonshine in oak barrels, which gave it a smooth and mellow taste. Sutton’s moonshine was so popular that it attracted the attention of law enforcement, and he was arrested numerous times for his illegal activities.

The FBI’s Investigation

In the early 2000s, the FBI launched an investigation into Sutton’s moonshine operation. The agency had received numerous complaints about Sutton’s illegal activities, and they were determined to put an end to his operation. Sutton was arrested and charged with making and selling moonshine, but he managed to avoid prison by cooperating with the authorities.

The Final Days

In the months leading up to his death, Sutton was in poor health. He had been suffering from cancer and was in a great deal of pain. Despite his illness, Sutton continued to make moonshine, and his operation was still active at the time of his death.

The Mysterious Death

On March 11, 2009, Sutton’s body was found in his home in Maggie Valley, North Carolina. The authorities were called to the scene, and an investigation was launched. The cause of Sutton’s death was initially unclear, but it was later determined that he had died from carbon monoxide poisoning.

The Investigation

The investigation into Sutton’s death was led by the Haywood County Sheriff’s Office and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation. The authorities found that Sutton had died from carbon monoxide poisoning, but they were unable to determine whether it was accidental or intentional.

Theories and Speculation

There were several theories and speculations about Sutton’s death. Some believed that he had died accidentally, perhaps due to a faulty heating system or a gas leak. Others believed that his death was intentional, perhaps at the hands of a rival moonshiner or a law enforcement officer.

The Legacy of Popcorn Sutton

Despite his tragic death, Popcorn Sutton’s legacy lives on. He is still remembered as a legendary figure in the world of bootlegging, and his moonshine is still sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. Sutton’s story has also been immortalized in a documentary film, which explores his life and career as a moonshiner.

Conclusion

The death of Popcorn Sutton remains a mystery, and it is unclear whether his death was accidental or intentional. However, his legacy as a legendary moonshiner and a charismatic figure in the world of bootlegging will never be forgotten.

Table: Popcorn Sutton’s Life and Career

Bullets: Popcorn Sutton’s Notable Achievements

• Made high-quality moonshine using a secret recipe
• Established a reputation as a charismatic and expert moonshiner
• Avoided prison by cooperating with the authorities
• Became a legendary figure in the world of bootlegging
• Had his moonshine operation shut down by the authorities

Additional Resources

• "Popcorn Sutton: The Last of the Moonshiners" (documentary film)
• "The Moonshine King" (book by Popcorn Sutton)
• "Popcorn Sutton’s Moonshine" (website and online store)