New evidence implicates famed sheriff Buford Pusser in wife's murder

In 1967, in the United States, Pauline Mullins Pusser was shot and killed under circumstances that had long been believed to be an ambush aimed at her husband, Buford Pusser. However, recent findings from the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation have brought new evidence to light, suggesting that Buford Pusser may have been responsible for his wife's death. This cold case review revealed several inconsistencies in Buford's own accounts to law enforcement and raised questions about the narrative he had constructed around the incident. During the investigation, law enforcement uncovered physical and forensic evidence that contradicted Pusser's version of events. Notably, it was determined that Pauline was shot outside of her vehicle and later placed inside, rather than being killed in an ambush as Buford had claimed. A new autopsy revealed cranial trauma that did not align with photographs of the crime scene, further calling into question the circumstances of her death. Additionally, evidence indicated that Pauline had suffered previous abuses, hinting at a history of domestic violence overlooked in earlier investigations. District Attorney Mark Davidson emphasized that the purpose of reconstructing this case is to ensure justice for Pauline and closure for her family rather than tarnishing Buford Pusser's legacy. Their findings led to the conclusion that if Buford Pusser were alive today, he would be indicted for the murder of his wife. This new investigation, which escalated in 2023 and 2024, also involved exhuming Pauline's body for a second autopsy, which revealed significant evidence supporting the theory of intimate violence rather than an accidental death. The implications of this case shed light on the problematic perceptions surrounding domestic violence and the need for accountability, even in cases involving celebrated public figures. Family members, particularly Pauline's brother, Griffon Mullins, expressed a sense of relief and closure with the new information, emphasizing the importance of addressing these issues openly. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has stated that the findings from this case will be made available to the public, promoting transparency in the process as they continue to advocate for justice in Pauline's memory.