08/28/2025
New Developments in the Murder of Pauline Mullins Pusser
58 Years After Her Death
Additional evidence is being made public for the first time, revealing significant details in the murder of Pauline Mullins Pusser on August 12, 1967. General Mark Davidson of the 25th Judicial District will hold a joint news conference Friday, Aug. 29 at the UT Martin Center in Somerville, alongside the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and the University of Tennessee, Martin, to announce court filings and discuss the evidence that has helped bring closure to the Mullins family nearly six decades after her murder.
It was long reported that Mullins Pusser was shot and killed in an ambush meant for her husband, McNairy County Sheriff, Buford Pusser. She was in a vehicle driven by the Sheriff on a rural county
road near the Tennessee-Mississippi state line when she was shot. Mullins Pusser died from her wounds. The Sheriff survived his injuries.
Mullins Pusser’s murder remained a cold case for decades, and in 2023 TBI publicly asked for tips, which resulted in a new lead. With permission from her family, Mullins Pusser’s body was exhumed
in 2024, and the results of her autopsy were sealed by a court order.
This case gained national attention due to Mullins Pusser’s husband’s reputation, who’s life story inspired the movie Walking Tall in 1973, several sequels, and the 2004 remake starring Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. In the latter film, the script changed the Sheriff’s name and hometown.
Pauline Mullins Pusser is survived by her brother, Griffon Mullins, who will be delivering a video statement at the press conference. Her family has asked for privacy from the media.
