In the late summer of 2017, the quiet community of Cromberg, California, was marked by the unsettling disappearance of one of its long-term residents. Seventy-three-year-old William Millard was last seen on September 8, 2017. A resident of the area for a quarter of a century, his sudden absence raised concern among those who knew him, including his daughter, Christy Millard, who grew worried about her father's whereabouts. The initial search for Mr.
Millard was prompted by a concerned neighbor who reported seeing his truck abandoned in the woods near Rattlesnake Creek Road, several miles from his home.
The discovery of William Millard's truck initiated a formal investigation by the Plumas County Sheriff's Office. Upon locating the vehicle, it appeared to have suffered mechanical issues, rendering it inoperable. This led to the speculation that Mr. Millard may have decided to walk back to his residence, a journey that would have taken him through the rugged terrain of the Sierra Nevada. The Sheriff's Office dedicated significant time and resources to find him, deploying search and rescue teams with dogs to scour the hillsides and roads in the vicinity of where his truck was found. Despite these extensive efforts, which continued until winter weather conditions made further searching impossible, no trace of Mr. Millard was found. Local hospitals were also contacted in an attempt to locate him, but these efforts were also unsuccessful. For years, the case remained open with no new leads, leaving his family and community without answers.
In a somber conclusion to the years-long search, official reports have confirmed that William Millard has been located deceased. In May 2025, human remains were discovered in a remote area approximately half a mile from where his broken-down truck had been abandoned years earlier. The remains were positively identified as those of William Millard. Investigators have stated that no foul play is suspected in his death. While the discovery brings a degree of closure to his family, the exact date and the specific circumstances surrounding his passing remain vague. The overview of this case paints a sorrowful picture of an elderly man who, after his vehicle broke down, likely attempted a perilous journey on foot through a challenging landscape, ultimately succumbing to the elements or other unfortunate circumstances. The Plumas County Sheriff's Office has not released further details surrounding the discovery.Last Seen: Sep 8, 2017
