New TBI Report Links Buford Pusser to Wife’s Murder, Says Crime Scene Was Staged

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) now believes former Sheriff Buford Pusser murdered his wife, Pauline Pusser, in 1967.

This revelation contradicts the long-held story that Pauline was killed in an ambush while riding with Buford.

Shocking Evidence Rewrites Buford Pusser’s Legacy

In a press conference on August 29, 2025, TBI officials presented new findings.

They revealed that Pauline’s body was exhumed in February 2024. No autopsy had been performed when she died.

Medical examiners found her injuries did not match the story Buford told. Her gunshot wounds and skull trauma suggest she was shot outside the car, not inside as claimed.

Blood splatter on the car’s hood did not support Buford’s version either. His own cheek wound was ruled as likely self-inflicted.

The TBI said the scene had been deliberately staged.

According to District Attorney General Mark Davidson, there is now probable cause that this was not an accident but a deliberate act of violence.

He emphasized this investigation was about justice—not tarnishing a Tennessee icon.

Justice for Pauline After Nearly Six Decades

Pauline’s brother, Griffin Mullins, spoke to the TBI.

He said he loved his sister deeply and always sensed trouble in her marriage.

Mullins said if he had known what he knows now, Pauline would never have gone back to Tennessee.

The TBI’s findings are the result of decades of suspicion and a recent anonymous tip.

Investigators now believe Pauline was abused and silenced. They hope releasing the case files will bring peace to her family.

This report rewrites the legacy of a man once hailed as a folk hero. Buford Pusser inspired the 1973 film Walking Tall.

Now, history may remember him very differently.

Buford Pusser’s name is once again in headlines—this time not for justice, but for alleged betrayal and cover-up.

Thought you’d like to know-

Q1: Who was Buford Pusser?

Buford Pusser was a sheriff in Tennessee known for his fight against crime. He inspired the movie “Walking Tall.”

Q2: What does the new TBI report say?

The TBI says Buford likely killed his wife and staged the crime scene to cover it up. They believe he shot himself to appear as a victim.

Q3: When was Pauline Pusser killed?

She was killed on August 12, 1967. Her body was recently exhumed in February 2024 for a new investigation.

Q4: What was wrong with the original investigation?

No autopsy was done in 1967. Evidence and photos now show her injuries don’t match the scene as described by Buford.

Q5: What happens next?

The case will remain closed as Buford is deceased. However, the TBI will release the full files for public record.