SOMERVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) —Investigators released new information Friday after exhuming the body of Pauline Mullins Pusser nearly six decades after she was buried.

Pauline was the wife of Sheriff Buford Pusser, a Tennessee legend known for carrying a stick as he cracked down on crime. But to this day, his wife’s death remains a mystery.

Pusser was known for cracking down on bootlegging, prostitution and gambling as the McNairy County Sheriff. His law enforcement career inspired not one, but two Hollywood movies.

The beloved sheriff continues to have a large influence on the community, including the annual Buford Pusser Festival.

For nearly 60 years, questions have surrounded Pauline’s death after she was said to be shot and killed in an ambush meant for her husband while riding in his car. Sheriff Pusser was also shot in the face.

TBI officials decided to exhume her body in 2024 after receiving a new lead. The results of that autopsy have been sealed up to this point.

News Source : https://www.wkrn.com/news/local-news/pauline-pusser-update/