Hiram “Ross” Grayam, a World War II veteran turned milkman, was murdered in 1968 and his case remained unsolved for over five decades. Grayam, a Purple Heart recipient who witnessed the liberation of concentration camps, was shot multiple times in Vero Beach, Florida. In 2016, Thomas J. Williams, the man responsible for Grayam’s killing, confessed to the crime to his ex-wife and a friend of his sister. These witnesses came forward after Williams’ death, feeling safe to share the information now that he was no longer a threat.
Despite rumors circulating in 2006 that Williams was involved in Grayam’s murder, the case remained unsolved until recent testimonies from his ex-wife and a friend of his sister provided crucial information to authorities. These witnesses independently confirmed that Williams had confessed to killing the milkman. The Indian River County Sheriff’s Office is still searching for a second man believed to be involved in the crime.
After Grayam disappeared on April 11, 1968, a witness reported seeing him talking to two men who later left with him in the Borden Milk Company truck. Grayam’s son, Larry, was 16 at the time of his father’s murder and vividly remembers the shock and disbelief he felt when he was informed of his father’s disappearance. Authorities are now asking residents of Gifford, the town where Grayam was last seen, to come forward with any information they may have about the second man involved in the crime or Grayam’s final movements.
The motive behind Grayam’s murder was likely an armed robbery, as he was known to carry cash while on his milk route. The racially tense environment at the time, following the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., may have also played a role in the crime. Detectives are continuing to pursue new leads and are hopeful that additional information will come to light to bring closure to the case. Grayam’s son remains hopeful that the second culprit will be identified, but recognizes the challenges that come with gathering evidence and relying on witness testimonies after so many years.
The resolution of Grayam’s cold case after more than 50 years demonstrates the importance of persistence and the willingness of witnesses to come forward with crucial information. The Indian River County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to solving cold cases and providing closure to victims’ families. With advancements in technology and the support of the community, law enforcement agencies continue to investigate old cases and seek justice for victims like Hiram “Ross” Grayam.
