LEWISTON, Maine — The 1976 unsolved murder of Dorothy “Dottie” Milliken has resurfaced in public attention as a new true crime book aims to shed light on the decades-old case. The book, set for release next week, seeks to generate fresh leads in the investigation into the brutal killing of the 27-year-old mother from Sabattus.
Milliken’s lifeless body was discovered outside Beal’s Laundromat on Lisbon Street in the early hours of November 6, 1976, just days before she was scheduled to return to work from maternity leave. Her daughter, Tonia Ross, who was only 7 at the time, remembers her mother as a vibrant figure. “She was beautiful and funny, everything a child could wish for,” Ross reflected, noting the deep impact the traumatic event had on her life.
According to police reports, Milliken was brutally beaten, suffering fatal injuries from blunt force trauma to the head. Early investigations identified five persons of interest, but no arrests have ever been made. “I believe the murder was very brutal, likely committed by someone she knew,” Ross stated, suggesting that there may have been more than one assailant involved.
The newly authored book, titled “The Murder of Dorothy Milliken: Cold Case in Maine,” features insights gathered from interviews with family members, law enforcement, and acquaintances who knew Milliken. Author Sharon Kitchens spent over a year exploring the case, emphasizing that solving it hinges on individuals with information coming forward. “I genuinely believe that the resolution of this case relies on the courage of those who know something to finally speak up,” Kitchens said.
As the upcoming 50th anniversary of Milliken’s death approaches, Ross hopes the renewed interest sparked by the book will prompt someone to share crucial information. “Those who have stayed silent all these years need to understand the pain this has caused my family,” she said. “The trauma from that day still feels as real to me now as it did when I was 7.”
Ross is calling for anyone with knowledge regarding her mother’s murder to come forward, urging them to consider the emotional cost of staying silent and the importance of justice. The lingering mystery continues to haunt her family, and they are hopeful that new revelations may soon come to light.
Authorities are continuing to seek tips and information related to the case, encouraging anyone who may have insights to contact the Maine State Police. The hope is that with public interest rekindled, the truth surrounding Dorothy Milliken’s tragic death will finally emerge.