Sheriff Buford Pusser, recognized for his crime-fighting efforts, is said to have been responsible for the death of his own wife, according to investigators.

New Investigation Reveals Shocking Truth About the Death of Pauline Mullins Pusser

In a stunning turn of events, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) has revealed that Buford Pusser, a former Tennessee sheriff and the subject of Hollywood movies, was responsible for the murder of his wife, Pauline Mullins Pusser, in 1967.

The investigation, which was reopened in 2022 as part of the TBI's regular review of cold cases, has shed light on a darker side of Pusser's life. The case was built largely on Pusser's own statement and closed quickly, but new evidence has come to light that paints a different picture.

According to the investigation, Pauline Mullins Pusser suffered from domestic violence. On the fateful day of August 12, 1967, she was killed at home, with evidence of blunt force trauma consistent with an assault inside the residence. The lack of defensive wounds typically seen if attacked outdoors suggests that the initial attack and fatal injuries occurred at the home location.

The autopsy findings also revealed that Pauline had a broken nose that had healed prior to her death. Blood spatter on the hood outside the car contradicted Pusser's statements, and statements from people who were around at the time support the conclusion that she was a victim of domestic violence.

Inconsistencies between Pusser's version of events and the physical evidence led investigators to exhumed Pauline's body for an autopsy. Dr. Michael Revelle, a medical examiner, concluded that Pauline was more likely shot outside the car and then placed inside it. The gunshot wound on Pusser's cheek, which he claimed was inflicted by his enemies, was found to be likely self-inflicted.

Griffon Mullins, Pauline's younger brother, knew there was trouble in Pauline's marriage but was not totally shocked by her death. He stated that the investigation gave him closure. The truth matters, justice matters, even 58 years later, according to the district attorney for Tennessee's 25th judicial district.

The TBI plans to make the entire case file, exceeding 1,000 pages, available to the public through the University of Tennessee at Martin once redactions are completed. The university will create an online, searchable database for the case. The authorities emphasized that the investigation is not about tearing down a legend but about giving dignity and closure to Pauline and her family and ensuring that the truth is not buried with time.

Griffon Mullins expressed love and admiration for Pauline, describing her as a sweet and helpful person. He was not surprised by the revelation, but he was grateful for the closure that the investigation has provided. The killing of Pauline Mullins Pusser was initially believed to have been committed by Pusser's enemies, but evidence shows otherwise. The case serves as a reminder that the truth matters, and that justice, no matter how long it takes, will always prevail.