An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge Summary. In An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge, a Southern plantation owner named Peyton Farquhar is hanged during the American Civil War. At the moment of his death, he dreams that the rope breaks, allowing him to escape down the river and flee to safety. An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge summary key points: Under guard, Peyton Farquhar stands on Owl Creek Bridge and has a noose around his neck.