2/15/2024 Adamsville, TN – A cold case that has confounded authorities for over 50 years has finally been cracked wide open, thanks to clues uncovered during the recent exhumation of Pauline Pusser, wife of the late McNairy County Sheriff Buford Pusser. Pusser was tragically killed in 1967 by a barrage of incoming gunfire while riding with her husband, a case that has remained unsolved to this day.

However, hopes for answers emerged this week when forensic experts combing through Pusser’s remains discovered a crumpled piece of paper lodged deep in her left femur. Carefully unfurled, the paper revealed a five-letter word: “ELDER.”

“This is clearly the long-lost solution to 47-Across in the New York Times Sunday Crossword from August 6th, 1967,” said lead investigator Brainard Solvum. “We finally have the closure we need to put this case to rest.”

Authorities believe Pusser hastily scribbled down the answer moments before the fatal ambush, hoping to finish the puzzle after reaching safety. Unfortunately, her crossword solving was cut tragically short, leaving 47-Across unfinished.

Experts suggest she likely chose “ELDER” based on the across clue, “More mature.”

“Our top cruciverbalists confirm this is absolutely the right answer,” Solvum continued. “Case closed.”

With the crossword mystery finally put to bed, officials say they can now shift focus to less pressing matters, like solving Pusser’s murder.

“It’s a huge weight off our shoulders,” said Solvum. “Now we can devote our time to finding her killer – just as soon as we finish the Friday Sudoku.”

BY BS

The Journalist BS

Photo Credit: Microsoft Chat AI