Ralph Hampton Miller was 17 when he was last seen in Lakeland, Florida, on September 19, 1970. His mother reported seeing him in bed that morning before she left for work; when she returned he was gone and has not been heard from since. Initial information was sparse and no substantial leads emerged for years.

Later reports introduced conflicting timelines and unverified accounts. Some friends said they last saw Ralph on September 26, 1970, and that they had planned to attend a concert in Orlando with him. They said Ralph was instead taken to a local gathering spot near Banana Lake known as The Pines. Rumors from those accounts allege Ralph may have been killed over accusations that he was a police informant, but those claims remain unverified.

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate and is seeking any information that could resolve this cold case. If anyone knew Ralph, his movements in September 1970, or the places he frequented around Banana Lake, please come forward with information.