Decades-Old Mystery Solved: ’Walking Tall’ Actor Buford Pusser Confirmed as Wife’s Killer
MEMPHIS, TN – A 1967 case initially ruled an accidental shooting has been definitively closed: Buford Pusser, the real-life lawman and subject of the film Walking Tall, intentionally killed his wife, Pauline Pusser. The Tennessee Bureau of Inquiry (TBI) confirmed the findings in 2022, but details are newly surfacing, revealing a pattern of domestic violence and a intentional attempt to conceal the truth. Dwayne Johnson also starred as Pusser in a 2004 remake of Walking Tall.
For over fifty years, the narrative surrounding Pauline Pusser’s death centered on a tragic accident - a shooting during a car ride. though, inconsistencies in Pusser’s account and evidence uncovered during the autopsy painted a far more sinister picture. The TBI’s investigation revealed Pauline was struck outside the vehicle, then moved inside, and the fatal gunshot was fired at close range, suggesting self-infliction. This contradicts Pusser’s initial claim of a sudden cliffside ambush. The case’s re-examination underscores the challenges of investigating domestic violence, particularly when perpetrated by figures of public stature, and highlights the enduring impact of unsolved trauma on families and communities.
Evidence further suggested a history of abuse. The autopsy revealed healed fractures of Pauline’s nose, indicating prior physical violence. These findings, coupled wiht the discrepancies in the shooting’s circumstances, led investigators to classify the incident as a homicide.
Regional prosecutor Mark Davidson explained the delayed revelation, stating, “We did not reveal the truth of the case to break down the legend. We tie up the victim Paulin and his family, and reveal this fact to prevent the truth of the case in time.” He emphasized the importance of truth and justice, adding, “The truth and justice are critically important. I am qualified.”
The case remained classified as an incident occurring in the United States for several years before the TBI’s conclusive findings. The revelation brings a measure of closure to the Pusser family and serves as a stark reminder of the hidden realities behind public personas.
