Cold case solved in 1968 killing of World War II veteran in Florida

Hiram ‘Ross’ Grayam shot dead in Indian River County

Hiram "Ross" Grayam (Indian River County Sheriff's Office)

INDIAN RIVER COUNTY, Fla. – The Indian River County Sheriff’s Office announced Thursday its Cold Case Unit had finally solved the 1968 killing of Hiram “Ross’” Grayam, a decorated World War II veteran.

Grayam, whose service included action at the Battle of the Bulge and the liberation of two concentration camps, became a beloved milkman upon his return to Indian River County, the sheriff’s office said on social media.

Recommended Videos



One day in April 1968, Grayam left home on his delivery route, but he would never return, the post states. His body and truck were found deep in the woods, the sheriff’s office said, noting Grayam had been shot multiple times.

Some 56 years later, the mystery of Grayam’s killer has been revealed through the dedication of detectives and the cooperation of witnesses, according to the post.

[EXCLUSIVE: Become a News 6 Insider (it’s FREE) | PINIT! Share your photos]

Though now dead himself, an individual identified as Thomas J. Williams had reportedly confessed to murdering Grayam, “his guilt echoing from beyond the grave,” the sheriff’s office said.

“Fueled by a commitment to closure and justice, the Cold Case Unit continues the pursue every new lead,” the post states. “Armed with the latest technology and new partnerships, they stand as beacons of hope for families like the Grayams, ensuring that no victim is forgotten, and no crime is unpunished. With each lead pursued, they honor the memory of those lost and bring closure to countless families.”

Read further about Grayam, the cold case and what could come next on CBS News.


Get today’s headlines in minutes with Your Florida Daily:


About the Author

Brandon, a UCF grad, joined the ClickOrlando team in November 2021. Before joining News 6, Brandon worked at WDBO.

Recommended Videos