New Evidence Suggests Sheriff Buford Pusser’s Wife Was Killed in 1967: Officials

Authorities in Tennessee have announced new findings indicating that Pauline Mullins Pusser, wife of the legendary sheriff Buford Pusser, may have been murdered in 1967, contrary to the longstanding story that her death was a random shooting during a disturbance. The investigation reexamined old case files and uncovered evidence pointing toward possible domestic violence and inconsistencies in the original account.

Prosecutors, working with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, reviewed case materials and exhumed Pauline’s body for further analysis. An emergency medicine specialist re-evaluated the autopsy and crime scene photos, concluding that Pauline was most likely shot outside her car and then placed inside, rather than being shot inside as previously believed. Blood spatter patterns on the vehicle’s hood and the nature of her gunshot wound suggest a different scenario from the initial account.

Additional autopsy findings revealed that Pauline had a healed broken nose and a close-contact gunshot wound to her face, possibly self-inflicted. Witness statements indicate she endured domestic violence, supporting the new theory of her murder being a domestic incident rather than an attack by strangers.

Mark Davidson, district attorney for Tennessee’s 25th district, said there is enough evidence to pursue a formal indictment against Buford Pusser if he were alive today, emphasizing that the case is about justice and closure for Pauline’s family. He highlighted that Pusser’s own stories did not align with physical evidence, suggesting the sheriff’s version of events was inaccurate.

Buford Pusser, who inspired the film “Walking Tall,” died in a car crash seven years after his wife’s death. His brother-in-law, Griffon Mullins, expressed relief that the investigation provided closure and stability, stating Pauline was a kind and loving person who was deeply loved by her family.

In a recorded message, Mullins also mentioned that their other sister had died without knowing what truly happened to Pauline, and he felt grateful to finally learn the truth.

“The truth matters. Justice matters. Even after all these years, Pauline deserves both,” stated Davidson at a news conference.