Recent evidence indicates a potential shift in the narrative surrounding Sheriff Pusser's wife's death, suggesting that he may have been the perpetrator, contrary to the initial claim of an ambush.

More than five decades after the tragic death of Pauline Mullins Pusser, new evidence has emerged that challenges the official account of her demise. The former McNairy County Sheriff, Buford Pusser, who gained national fame for his campaign against organised crime, is now under renewed scrutiny.

On August 12, 1967, Pauline Pusser was found dead in the couple's patrol car. Buford Pusser had radioed for help, but the circumstances surrounding her death have remained shrouded in mystery until now.

Forensic evidence, autopsy results, and inconsistencies in Pusser's account indicate that Pauline was shot outside the car and then placed inside. Ballistic and forensic analysis did not match Pusser's version of events. TBI investigators found more inconsistencies in Pusser's statements regarding Pauline's murder.

The car had been hit 11 times, and 14 spent rifle cartridges were recovered. Bloodstain patterns showed someone was wounded both outside and inside the vehicle. A healing nasal fracture consistent with domestic violence was discovered, which was not previously reported.

Last year, Pauline's body was exhumed to be re-examined by the TBI. The investigator's name was Sheriff Buford Pusser. Pusser's own gunshot wound appeared to be staged, according to TBI investigators.

District Attorney Mark Davidson stated that the case is not about "tearing down a legend" but about giving Pauline "truth and justice" decades later. He encourages the public to review the more than 1,000-page case file, now on public record and housed at the University of Tennessee at Martin.

Buford Pusser, who inspired the film "Walking Tall," died in a car crash in 1974. His career as a sheriff was marked by his relentless pursuit of justice, but the investigation into Pauline's death has remained open.

This development in the case has stirred up old memories and questions. The FOX 17 News Daily Newsletter delivers such reports and all the news of Middle Tennessee to your inbox each morning. Stay informed and stay updated with us.

Recent evidence indicates a potential shift in the narrative surrounding Sheriff Pusser's wife's death, suggesting that he may have been the perpetrator, contrary to the initial claim of an ambush.