Tennessee Investigation Finds 'Walking Tall' Sheriff Likely Killed Wife in 1967

Authorities in Tennessee now believe that Buford Pusser, the sheriff who inspired the movie "Walking Tall," was responsible for the 1967 murder of his wife, Pauline Pusser. Initial reports claimed Pauline was killed in an ambush targeting Buford during a disturbance call, but new investigations revealed inconsistencies in Buford Pusser's statements and evidence suggesting the crime scene was staged. Blood spatter patterns and autopsy results indicate Pauline was likely shot outside the vehicle and then placed inside, contradicting Buford's claims. Additionally, Buford's gunshot wound was determined to be close-contact and likely self-inflicted. District Attorney Mark Davidson stated that if Buford were alive today, there would be probable cause to charge him with murder, emphasizing that justice for Pauline has been a long time coming after more than five decades. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has completed an extensive case file, which will be made public after redactions.