That wild night in Buffalo back in 2000 remains one of the most unexpected moments in country music history. Kenny Chesney and Tim McGraw—two of the genre’s biggest stars—found themselves in legal trouble after what started as some innocent horsing around.
After performing at Ralph Wilson Stadium in Orchard Park, Chesney hopped onto a police horse, reportedly with permission from the officer’s daughter. However, when he allegedly refused to dismount, things escalated quickly. A sheriff’s deputy attempted to remove him, and that’s when McGraw—seeing his friend in distress—jumped in. In the heat of the moment, McGraw reportedly put a deputy in a chokehold, leading to injuries and serious charges.
At the time, Erie County Sheriff Patrick Gallivan explained that “assaulting a police officer is a felony in New York, regardless of the extent of the injuries.” If convicted, McGraw could have faced up to seven years in prison.
Security guard Michael Burton, who witnessed the scuffle, told reporters that it was all just a big misunderstanding. “Tim McGraw saw his buddy in trouble and came to help. Using his fists probably wasn’t the best way to do it.”
Despite the chaos, the legal system sided with the country stars. A year later, both Chesney and McGraw were found innocent, and all charges were dropped.
It’s been 24 years since that infamous night, but the story remains a legendary tale of friendship, loyalty, and, well… a little too much cowboy spirit.
